Invisalign is a teeth aligner that looks like a clear, thin mouthguard and fits over one or both sets of teeth. The aligners move your teeth horizontally and vertically and are a virtually invisible alternative to braces.
How It Works
After an initial consultation, in which your dentist will scan your mouth and map out a treatment plan, you will receive several sets of custom-made aligners and a schedule for changing them. Aligners are changed every week, helping your teeth gradually move into position. Invisalign is fit to your mouth specifically and can fix a variety of aesthetic and functional issues related to crooked teeth or an unaligned jaw.
You then wear Invisalign 20-22 hours every day and change your retainer as instructed by your dentist. Your dentist will also send you home with a cleaning kit to prevent bacteria buildup and keep your teeth looking shiny while you’re using Invisalign.
Is Invisalign For Me?
Like braces, it’s a great option for most patients without major health issues. Invisalign will work to improve your teeth if you have…
- Gapped Teeth. Gaps between your teeth can weaken the gums and jaw
- Overbite. Upper teeth drastically hang over the lower teeth when you close your mouth
- Underbite. Lower teeth close in front of upper teeth
- Open Bite. Certain teeth don’t meet when you close your mouth
- Crossbite. Certain upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, but not all of them
- Overly Crowded Teeth. Teeth are slightly in front of or behind each other
How To Use Invisalign
Unlike switching your retainer every week, using Invisalign is easy and low-maintenance. Following a few important guidelines can keep your mouth healthy while straightening your teeth.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss as you normally would, and use an antibacterial mouthwash
- Remove your aligners when you eat, floss, and brush
- Use the cleaning kit given to you by your dentist to keep your retainer clean
Why Choose Invisalign?
You probably think, “Invisalign sounds great, but is it worth the cost?” It tends to be more expensive than braces, and for teens or young adults, the retainer may prove breakable and easy to misplace. However, many Invisalign users find that the device allows them to live a more “normal” life while straightening their teeth.
- Eat whatever you want; unlike with braces, which can break if you consume sticky or hard foods, you can take your retainer out while you eat so it won’t be damaged.
- Remove the device whenever you want, although it’s recommended that you wear it most of the time.
- Virtually invisible, unlike chunky braces, Invisalign is great to wear in public. Most people probably won’t even notice a difference.
- More comfortable and safer than braces, especially for athletes who may be hit in the mouth with a ball or an elbow.
Interested in trying Invisalign to straighten your teeth? Talk to your dentist at Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center today to explore your options!