Invisalign is a tooth straightening system that uses a series of clear plastic trays instead of wires and brackets to straighten teeth.
How Does Invisalign Work?
The Invisalign system moves teeth in the same that traditional braces would – by applying gentle pressure that forces teeth to move towards the desired position. There are a number of differences between traditional braces and Invisalign. Traditional braces need tightening, for example, which requires frequent trips to the orthodontist. Invisalign work through a series of trays in which each tray pushes the teeth a small distance towards its intended position; the trays come through the mail, so you won’t need to see your dentists as often.
Why Choose Invisalign?
Invisalign offers a number of benefits over traditional braces. The plastic trays of Invisalign are clear, for example, so nobody knows you are wearing them. The plastic is also much smoother than wires and brackets, so Invisalign aligners will not tear up your cheeks and gums like traditional braces can.
Traditional braces can make dental hygiene challenging, as it can be difficult to remove food particles and bacteria from around the brackets and wires. Poor dental hygiene allows food and bacteria to remain on teeth, potentially leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can take them out to brush your teeth. Traditional braces come with a long list of food restrictions; you can also eat and drink anything you want with Invisalign aligners – just remove your Invisalign aligners before eating and drinking then clean your teeth before putting your Invisalign aligners back in.
Dillon, CO Dentist Provides Invisalign
Invisalign is a process that begins with a consultation with and evaluation by your dentist. During this visit, you and your dentist will determine if Invisalign is right for you. Next, your dentist will take pictures and make digital impressions of your mouth. The photos work for before-and-after shots, to show you how your teeth look from different angles, and to help chart the course of treatment. The digital impressions help the Invisalign laboratory technicians create your Invisalign aligners.
When your Invisalign aligners are ready, you will come back to your Dillon, CO, dentist office to test out your first set of aligners. Your dentist will likely add attachments to your teeth, which help your teeth hold onto the Invisalign aligners. In rare cases, your dentist may perform Interproximal Reduction (IPR), which involves lightly sanding specific teeth to make a little more room in the mouth. You will take home your first sets of trays during this visit.
You will receive new trays through the mail, about once every two weeks. Simply throw away the old aligners and start using the new ones. You will continue to receive aligner trays through the mail for the entire course of your treatment, which can last six to eighteen months, depending on the severity of your tooth misalignment. Some patients with severe tooth misalignment require a longer course of treatment.
How Long Do I Wear the Aligners For?
Once your teeth have reached their desired position, you can stop wearing the aligner trays, but you will need to wear a retainer for about 22 hours each day to prevent your teeth from drifting back. Your dentist will fit you with a retainer and remove your attachments at the final appointment.
For more information about Invisalign, contact Innovative Family Dental. Our Dillon, CO, dentist provides Invisalign tooth straightening along with a number of other dental treatments to keep your smile looking its best.
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