What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic appliance that straightens misaligned, gappy, or crowded teeth with the help of a series of clear plastic aligners. Aligners are changed on a 2-week basis for an overall period of 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of misalignment. The bespoke aligners are created from a digital iTERO® scan of the patient’s teeth.
What makes Invisalign® special is that the aligners are removable. However, it is not recommended to remove aligners for an extended amount of time, as this could delay the straightening process. Dentists and Orthodontists recommend that aligners only be removed to eat, drink, and to brush the teeth so as not to prolong the treatment and for optimal results. Because the aligners can be removed, Invisalign® patients have no dietary restrictions, unlike people with braces who are banned from sticky or hard foods.
Aligners are also nearly invisible. This is what makes Invisalign® a great option for individuals who want to improve their smile, but are not ready to commit to bulky, unsightly metal braces due to social or professional reasons.
Keep in mind that additional appliances cannot be attached to Invisalign® aligners, so more complex dental issues like over, under, and crossbites cannot be resolved solely with Invisalign®. This orthodontic system is most beneficial for minor to moderate orthodontic issues.
Different types of Invisalign®
There are three different kinds of Invisalign® - the standard treatment, Invisalign® braces express, and Invisalign® for teens.
Standard Invisalign® aligners are the most well-known clear aligners system that gently pushes teeth into the desired position. Invisalign® braces express is a relatively new offering on the market and offers a quick and effective orthodontic treatment for those with minimal to mild misalignment. Invisalign® for teens is geared towards younger individuals and was created specifically with growing mouths in mind.
How the Invisalign braces help you
Invisalign® braces gently shift your teeth into the desired position set forth by your dentist during your initial consultation. Invisalign® should be worn for the majority of the day, so they only apply minimal pressure to your teeth, which is only noticeable right after switching trays.
What happens if I don’t wear Invisalign braces enough?
If you do not wear your aligners for the minimum of 22 hours per day, the treatment will not be as effective since the teeth will not be exposed to consistent pressure over the course of the day. The teeth will not move and will not be ready for the next set of aligners, leading to a much longer treatment period and possibly more expensive.
Can I take Invisalign® out during the day?
You can remove Invisalign® aligners during the day, but only when absolutely necessary. Generally, this means when you are eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth.
It is possible to take them out when giving a presentation or going on a date, but you the longer they are out of your mouth, the less effective the treatment will be.
How does it work?
Invisalign® clear aligners are designed with your dream smile in mind. At your initial consultation, you will discuss your expectations with your dentist or orthodontist. He or she will then take these expectations, paired with your current x-rays and tooth position, to create your digital treatment plan right in front of you.
Your treatment plan consists of a series of rotating aligners that push the teeth into a certain position. Each aligner will only make gradual corrections, so you should not feel any discernible discomfort.
Can Invisalign® be worn only at night, will this work?
No, only wearing Invisalign® overnight does not allow the aligners enough time to guide the teeth into the proper position. You must wear the aligners for at least 22 hours per day.
Does Invisalign® feel uncomfortable at first wear?
When you first receive Invisalign® and after switching trays, it is completely normal to feel some discomfort and pressure on your teeth, which can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers. But that is all it is, slight pressure. If you are feeling intense pain or pinching around your gums, contact your cosmetic dentist in East London, so they refit your aligners to make them more comfortable.
Maintaining a straight smile after Invisalign®
After your Invisalign® treatment, you will need to undertake some basic upkeep to maintain your straight teeth. Your dentist will let you know what you must to do to keep your dream smile, which usually entails wearing a retainer, often just overnight.
Wearing a retainer overnight keeps your teeth from shifting back to their original position.
Easier to maintain
One of the main benefits Invisalign® offers is that it remains easy to practice good dental hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment. Which, frequently isn’t the case with metal brackets and wires.
Invisalign® is removable so you can keep both your teeth and trays clean, avoiding bacteria growth as well as the development of oral diseases or recalcification (white spots) on your teeth.
Overall, Invisalign® is a great orthodontic treatment option for those who wish to perfect their smile and close any gaps between teeth. But it is only the right treatment option if you are ready to wear the trays for the majority of the day, around 22 hours. If you are unwilling or able to do so, a different orthodontic treatment option like ceramic braces may be better suited.
Author Bio:
Platinum Dental Care - Dentist in East London offers private dentistry for children and adults. We provide a comprehensive range of general, orthodontic, restorative and cosmetic dental treatments. Call us on 02075 311 717 to know more about us.
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