Summary
Invisalign braces are a revolution in orthodontic treatments!
Gone are the days when over 4+ million Americans had to hide their smile and pain to correct their smile; in recent years, by offering a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces.
Thanks to the transparent braces concept, many individuals choose the oral appliance for their comfort and aesthetic appeal. This clear aligner has become popular, attracting people of all ages who seek a straighter smile without the hassle of metal wires and brackets.
But what involves the process of getting your invisible braces?
Let’s find out as we learn more about:
- What is an Invisalign – Key to a Healthy Smile
- Why Transparent Braces for Your Oral Problems?
- Clear Braces Treatment: Step-by-Step Procedure
- Myths About Transparent Aligners Treatment Busted!
- Brace Vs. Invisalign – What’s Better?
Continue reading as we learn more about Invisalign dental braces in the following sections of the blog.
What is an Invisalign – Key to a Healthy Smile?
Invisalign has treated over 10 million smiles. It is created using 3D technology, which helps create a digital impression of your smile. This impression is then used by your dentist in Prairie Village, KS, to predict the movement of your teeth, and based on the outcome, the custom aligners are made.
Every time you switch to a new set of aligners, your teeth will gradually move until it is completely aligned. Invisalign boasts a 96% patient satisfaction rate, indicating a high level of contentment among those who choose this orthodontic solution.
So, if you are considering transforming your smile using Invisalign, this step-by-step guide will provide valuable insights and statistics to help you make an informed decision.
Why Transparent Braces for Your Oral Problems?
Now that you know how Invisalign works, it’s time to know what orthodontic problems can be fixed. A Dentofacial Orthopedics and American Journal of Orthodontics study found that clear braces are as effective as traditional braces for mild to moderate orthodontic issues, affirming their credibility in orthodontics.
Interestingly, it also helps you resolve the following:
Overbite
Overbite is a common problem that can be treated using clear aligners. An overbite occurs when the top teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively. The custom-made aligners gently move your teeth to the proper position, fixing the overbite. Orthodontists sometimes use elastic rubber bands to add force to the aligners’ shifting.
Crowding
Dental crowding occurs when teeth twist or overlap because there isn’t much space in the jaw for the other teeth to emerge. Clear aligners are an effective tool for correcting dental crowding. Your expert for Invisalign in Kansas City will check if transparent braces are the right choice for you, and in cases of severe crowding, some extra steps are needed.
Invisalign fixes this issue by straightening your teeth and then spreading them out. In some cases, orthodontists do a simple procedure called IPR, where a tiny portion of enamel is removed from your teeth to make more room.
Gaps Between Teeth
Tooth gaps can lead to oral issues like gum problems or crooked teeth. They also increase the chances of tooth damage. Invisalign uses plastic aligners known as aligner trays to address these issues.
Each aligner tray is designed to move your teeth gently and safely. This process ensures slow and steady movement of the teeth, removing the gaps between them.
Clear Braces Treatment: Step-by-Step Procedure
Step I – Initial Consultation
The initial consultation with an orthodontic professional is the first step on your Invisalign journey. During the consultation, your orthodontist will assess your dental needs, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if a clear aligner is suitable.
Step II – Digital Impressions and Treatment Plan
Invisalign utilizes cutting-edge technology to create a customized treatment plan for each patient. Instead of traditional molds, digital impressions are taken using 3D scanning technology. This process is more comfortable for patients and results in more accurate aligners. The digital treatment plan’s precision contributes to the clear aligner’s effectiveness, ensuring predictable and efficient tooth movement.
Step III – Receiving Your Custom Aligners
Once your treatment plan is finalized, a series of custom aligners will be created to shift your teeth into the desired position gradually. The number of aligners varies for each individual, with the average treatment duration being around 12 to 18 months.
Step IV – Wearing and Maintaining Your Aligners
One of the key advantages of clear aligners is that they can be removed, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions and maintain optimal oral hygiene. On average, patients are advised to wear their aligners for 20-22 hours daily, changing to a new set approximately every 1-2 weeks.
Step V – Regular Check-Ups
Regular check-ups with your orthodontist will help monitor the progress of the treatment and ensure that the treatment is on track. If there is any problem, your orthodontist will be able to make all the necessary adjustments.
Myths About Transparent Aligners Treatment Busted!
Now you know what to expect during the aligner treatment process, you might have some other doubts. Keeping the same in mind, this section explores some common myths concerning Invisalign and braces.
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The Invisalign process is painful:
No, it’s not! The process is painless. It does not hurt during the molding, fitting, or wearing stages. Initially, it may be uncomfortable, but it wears off as you get used to it.
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There are several restrictions for the appliance:
No restrictions are there for clear braces. There are no dietary restrictions during the procedure; you can remove them while drinking and eating.
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Invisalign requires lots of effort:
No. Instead, it is easier to maintain oral health with this dental appliance. You can brush and floss your teeth regularly like you used to do before, and you can take your appliance off.
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You may have affected speech due to clear aligners:
Not really! They usually don’t affect your speech. At first, you might stutter slightly or face mild speech obligations, but it should go away within a few hours or days, depending on how you adjust to the aligners in your mouth.
Brace Vs. Invisalign – What’s Better?
Both Invisalign and braces are used to straighten the alignment of teeth gradually. Both of them yield excellent results.
While transparent aligners are sleek, have zero restrictions, and are more comfortable, you should remember that they are not ideal for complex corrections. Also, it requires a lot of discipline to get the desired results. Also, losing their aligners is a significant concern for kids, which costs more and extends treatment time.
On the other hand, traditional braces help fix complex misalignments and are ideal for kids as they cannot be removed easily. However, they are uncomfortable because of the teeth wiring and can cause irritations and cuts.
Also, they are visible, so that it might affect your appearance. There are various dietary restrictions for people with braces, such as not being allowed to have candy, bagels, or anything chewy as it might get stuck in the brackets of the braces.
Should I Get Braces or Invisalign?
When choosing between braces and aligners, you should consult your dentist and consider certain factors like the extent of correction necessary, lifestyle, and age.
Ultimately, whether to get Invisalign or not is your ultimate choice. Therefore, ensure that you understand the appliance before opting for the treatment.
Takeaway
- Invisalign is a discreet treatment method that allows individuals to fix their smile without undergoing the pain of wearing braces.
- Transparent braces are convenient to wear, take off, and eat while you enjoy your life.
- Still, have questions about undergoing the Invisalign treatment? Wait no more; connect with our experts at Cope Dentistry today!
