Invisalign® clear aligners are used in orthodontic treatment to align and straighten teeth. They are an alternative to traditional braces, which use metal brackets and wires.The aligners are made of a clear plastic material that is custom designed to fit over your teeth. The aligners are nearly invisible, so many patients enjoy this discrete approach to orthodontic treatment. The aligners are also removable, allowing patients to eat, drink and floss without any major restrictions.
Is it as effective as traditional braces?
Invisalign® clear aligners can be as effective as traditional braces for many cases of mild to moderate crowding. The effectiveness depends on the complexity of the orthodontic issues, and especially on patient compliance. The aligners need to be worn for the recommended 22 hrs per day to achieve the desired results. Meticulous oral hygiene is also very important during treatment as getting a cavity can delay treatment.
How does it work?
The process begins with an initial consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, your dentist will assess your teeth, take X-rays, photographs, and a digital scan of your teeth.
Based on the data collected at the initial consultation, a 3D model of your teeth is created. Using specialized software, your dentist will map out the desired tooth movements to achieve the final alignment of your teeth. Your dentist will share with you a virtual representation of how your teeth will move over the course of treatment.
Once the treatment plan is accepted by the patient, a series of custom made aligners will be fabricated. Each aligner is designed to apply controlled pressure to specific areas to gradually move your teeth into position.
You will wear each set of aligners for 1 to 2 weeks. They should be worn for 22 hrs per day, including through the night, and are only removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.
As you progress through the treatment, your teeth will shift into alignment. Each set is slightly different from the previous set in order to continue the gradual movement of teeth.
Every 4 to 6 weeks, you will have regular checkups with your dentist to monitor your progress and deliver new sets of aligners.
Once you have completed the entire series of aligners, your dentist will make a retainer to hold the teeth in the desired alignment. The retainers may be removable or fixed in place, depending on your individual case.
