Invisalign® is a popular brand of clear aligners for people who want to straighten their teeth without braces. Treatment is flexible, discreet, and effective, provided the patient is a good candidate and wears the aligners as directed. Here are some important things to know to help you get the most out of Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign is a clear aligner brand that uses a special SmarTrack™ material designed to move teeth more precisely and effectively. Like all clear aligners, Invisalign treatment involves patients wearing a series of custom-made, clear trays to straighten their teeth slowly. Patients receive new aligners every few weeks that progressively move their teeth into the desired position.
Treatment starts with a consultation, during which an oral health professional will take impressions for treatment planning and constructing the aligners. Aligners work by applying controlled force to different parts of teeth during different parts of treatment. Teeth move a little more with each new set of aligners. Treatment times vary by patient but average between 10 to 18 months.
Patients who do well with Invisalign are typically well-organized teens and adults who want to straighten their teeth without braces. Candidates must commit to taking proper care of the aligners and wear them exactly as directed. Clear aligners work best for mild to moderate teeth straightening issues.
Though Invisalign can be an effective way to straighten teeth, there are certain cases where braces are still a better option. Clear aligners are usually not recommended for the following:
In addition, Invisalign is not usually recommended for young children who may have trouble keeping track of their aligners.
In general, even if one is a good candidate, there are three key rules to get the most out of Invisalign treatment.
Dentists typically recommend that patients only take the aligners out when necessary, such as eating, drinking, or cleaning. Wearing the aligners for less than 20 hours a day can impact the effectiveness of treatment.
Patients should keep their aligners in their portable case when not wearing their aligners. This practice can help wearers keep track of their aligners and protect them from being lost, dropped, or damaged in some way.
Keeping aligners clean helps protect one’s dental health during treatment. Patients should follow the proper cleaning protocols to keep the aligners free of debris and bacteria that could cause problems for their teeth and gums.
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If the patient is a good candidate and follows proper treatment protocol, Invisalign can effectively and discreetly achieve a straighter smile. Our team can help you decide if Invisalign is right for you. Call us today to learn more about this and other teeth-straightening options.
Request an appointment or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at 480-439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.
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