Invisalign® is a highly advanced orthodontic treatment that uses clear, comfortable plastic trays to give you the smile you've always wanted. Compared to other orthodontic systems, Invisalign offers impressive benefits. This blog will explain the 5 top benefits of Invisalign, share how the system works, and give you vital tips for succeeding with this treatment.
Benefit #1: Comfortable
Invisalign trays are smooth and fit close to the teeth. They have no sharp edges, wires, or brackets to damage tender oral tissues. You will quickly become accustomed to wearing your aligners and may even forget that you have them in your mouth.
Invisalign also does not require uncomfortable adjustment appointments. The aligners move the teeth gradually and smoothly, and there is only minor discomfort after changing to a new one.
Benefit #2: Discreet
Most adult and teen patients feel reluctant to wear traditional braces because they want to keep their orthodontic treatment private. Patients who don’t want to attract attention to their orthodontic care are excited to learn about Invisalign. As your teeth move gradually over time, your friends and family may notice a subtle difference in your smile, but you can keep your treatment to yourself.
Benefit #3: Improved Oral Health and Hygiene
Compared to standard braces, Invisalign patients enjoy better oral health and hygiene. However, cleaning around braces can be challenging, and if patients are not diligent, it can lead to gum health problems and tooth decay.
Invisalign trays come out of the mouth for cleaning, allowing patients to take excellent care of their teeth and gums. Researchers have demonstrated that Invisalign patients have better gum health than braces patients.
Benefit #4: Quick and Effective Treatment
Invisalign is clinically effective. It can be used in as little as six months, though most patients use the system for 12 to 18 months. Compare this time frame to braces, which often take 18 months to three years.
Benefit #5: Increase Your Confidence
You will feel confident in your appearance with a beautifully aligned smile free of gaps, crooked teeth, and an improved bite. You will smile more, and you may attract favorable attention from others.
How Invisalign Works
The Invisalign system relies on a series of graduated trays. Custom-molded to the shape of your teeth, these trays come in a series that works to move your teeth in stages. Every one to two weeks, you will change to the next aligner and move your teeth a little more. You will see your orthodontist approximately once every six weeks to check your progress.
Your orthodontist creates aligners using a state-of-the-art digital intraoral scanner and proprietary 3-D design software. They visualize each step toward your perfect smile and design aligners that accomplish your goal.
Tips for Success With Invisalign
Hygiene
Brush and floss as directed to keep your teeth and aligners as clean as possible. Clean your aligners with clear, undyed antibacterial soap or Invisalign's branded crystals. Your orthodontist may have other cleaning methods to share.
Avoid using abrasive or dyed toothpaste on your aligners, as they could become scratched or stained. Also, avoid washing your aligners in hot water to prevent warping.
Duration of Wear
Ensure you wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily. If you do not wear them enough, your teeth will not move into the desired positions, and your treatment will be off-track.
Care Management
If you lose an aligner, call your orthodontist immediately for a replacement. Remember to put your aligners back in after a meal, snack, or brushing your teeth. Keep your aligners in your case to avoid losing them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Why should I see an orthodontist to prescribe Invisalign?
While many dentists receive training on prescribing Invisalign, an orthodontist should be your top choice. Orthodontists receive years of additional education on tooth movements and best practices.
What happens if I forget to put my aligners back in?
Your teeth may revert to how they were before you started treatment. If this happens to you, be upfront with your orthodontist. They may be able to get you back on track without causing you to lose a great deal of progress.
Call Total Dental Care
We offer Invisalign and several other orthodontic treatments. To determine which treatment works best for you, please call our Germantown, MD, office at 240-813-9111 to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled orthodontists.