What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a tray-based alignment system that offers an alternative to traditional metal braces. The system uses advanced technology and patented software to create individualized treatment plans.
Invisalign trays are made of clear plastic. Once in place, they’re virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. The trays place gentle pressure on your teeth to slowly shift them into improved alignment.
Many people choose Invisalign because they want to achieve a straighter smile without the look and feel of traditional metal braces. Others enjoy the ease of brushing and flossing that Invisalign delivers, since you just pop the trays out and complete your normal routine. Metal brackets and wires create numerous hiding spots for plaque and bacteria.
What kinds of alignment problems can be corrected using Invisalign?
Invisalign can correct many of the same alignment issues as traditional metal braces. Some examples of treatable cases include:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Cross bite
- Open bite
- Mix of permanent and baby teeth
- General misalignment
There are some cases in which traditional braces offer a better solution. Because metal braces are secured to each individual tooth, they offer the ability to create highly targeted forces using attachments and elastics. During your initial visit, you’ll learn if Invisalign is the right fit for your specific needs.
What is it like to go through Invisalign treatment?
During your initial visit, your dentist performs a dental exam and gathers imaging using an intraoral scanner. Proprietary software uses the data collected by the scanner to create a customized treatment plan. A dental lab fabricates your aligners according to those plans.
When your first sets of aligners arrive you’ll come in to learn how to place and remove them. You’ll wear your aligners around the clock, removing them only to brush and floss your teeth and while eating or drinking.
Every couple of weeks you’ll switch to a new set of aligners. This creates new pressure to continue shifting your teeth toward optimal alignment. Periodic visits at Arcadia Dentistry ensure you are making good progress in your treatment plan.
When you’re ready to get started, call the office to schedule a visit. Online scheduling is also an option and can be done from the comfort of home, any time of day or night.
