The Invisalign® system is a practical, comfortable, and discreet treatment for correcting minor to moderate orthodontic issues. Treatment takes approximately six to 18 months to complete.
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on the complexity of your orthodontic needs. Correcting your teeth's alignment may take only six months for a simple case of gapped teeth, but it may take 18 months for a more complex situation like an overbite.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign involves creating a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually shift the teeth into optimal positions. To design your aligners, your orthodontist will take digital images using the iTero intraoral scanner. The intraoral scanner is a small, handheld wand that moves comfortably around your mouth, creating a complete 3-D digital model.
Your practitioner will use this data to assess which teeth should move and how much. They will design each graduated aligner to bring your teeth into the best possible arrangement.
You will have your first fitting after the clear aligners arrive from the lab. Your orthodontist will check to ensure the aligners are comfortable and fit well. As your treatment advances, you will switch to the next aligner in the series in about one to two weeks. You will visit your orthodontist roughly every four to six weeks for checkups.
Advantages of Invisalign
Discreet
Adults and older teens appreciate the ability to complete orthodontic treatment without drawing unwanted comments. Invisalign allows patients to maintain their privacy. Most people will not notice you are wearing Invisalign until they recognize your newly aligned smile.
Comfortable
Made of smooth medical-grade plastic without metal wires and brackets, Invisalign is much more comfortable than braces and will not cut into tender oral tissues.
Better Oral Hygiene
The aligners come out for cleaning, meaning patients can keep their teeth far cleaner than they could with braces. This feature reduces patients' chance of tooth decay and other complications.
Better Gum Health
Gum disease is a severe concern that can result in eventual tooth loss. Researchers found that Invisalign promotes better gingival health than braces.
No Food Restrictions
Braces patients often deal with restricted food choices. As an Invisalign patient, you can eat whatever you like as long as you completely clean your teeth before replacing your aligners.
Good Candidates for Invisalign
Most older teen and adult patients are excellent candidates for Invisalign, but there are a few conditions to keep in mind:
- All permanent teeth fully erupted
- No missing teeth
- Excellent oral hygiene skills
- Ability to wear aligners 20-22 hours daily
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Why is it essential to get Invisalign from an orthodontist?
While many family dentists provide Invisalign, an orthodontic specialist is a better choice. Orthodontists have a deeper understanding of how teeth move and how to create long-lasting smile transformations.
Do I need to wear a retainer after Invisalign?
Wear a retainer as directed if you want to keep your teeth in their new positions. The teeth, gums, and roots need time to adjust to new positions.
Call Total Dental Care
Invisalign is an excellent choice for adults and older teens who want quick, effective orthodontic treatment. Call our Germantown, MD, office at 240-813-9111 to schedule your Invisalign consultation today.