A Nearly Invisible Way to Straighten Teeth
Many individuals worry about the appearance of traditional dental braces and how they may affect their smile. This concern is particularly common among adults, as the thought of wearing unattractive metal braces for an extended period can be disheartening. However, Invisalign® provides a nearly invisible aligning system that efficiently straightens teeth without any metal components.
The Invisalign® treatment involves using a set of personalized aligning trays that are changed by the dentist every few weeks to accommodate the changing tooth alignment. These trays are not only less noticeable but can also be taken out temporarily for special events, giving patients control over the duration of their treatment. Many individuals have expressed high satisfaction with the Invisalign® treatment and the impressive outcomes it delivers.
What Kind of Bite Problems Can Invisalign® Correct?
Invisalign® is capable of addressing the same dental issues as traditional metal braces, with the only distinction being that Invisalign® trays are nearly undetectable and can be easily taken out whenever desired.
Here are some problems that are commonly corrected with Invisalign®:
Overcrowding
Crowding arises when there is insufficient space for teeth to align properly within the oral cavity. This condition may lead to tooth decay and elevate the risk of gum disease.
Large Gaps Between Teeth
Significant spaces between teeth may arise due to missing teeth or abnormal growth of the jaw.
Crossbite
This prevalent dental issue occurs when one or more upper teeth bite inwardly against the lower teeth. As a result, uneven wear can contribute to bone erosion and gum disease.
Overbite
This issue arises when the upper teeth extend beyond or entirely cover the lower teeth. Over time, it can lead to jaw pain and the possibility of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
Underbite
This is the opposite of an overbite; the lower teeth extend beyond or entirely cover the upper teeth. Ultimately, it can lead to jaw pain and the potential development of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
What Advantages Does Invisalign® Offer over Traditional Braces and Veneers?
There are three distinct methods for achieving perfectly aligned teeth: traditional dental braces, Invisalign® aligning trays, and dental veneers. When choosing the most suitable treatment, various factors need to be taken into account, as each option is more effective in specific circumstances.
The main difference between Invisalign® and traditional braces is that the aligning trays of Invisalign® can be easily removed. However, this requires the patient to be more disciplined and committed. Fortunately, this is usually not an issue as the trays are comfortable and hardly noticeable. Both treatments can achieve very similar results.
In many cases, Invisalign® is a better option than veneers because it effectively straightens the teeth, unlike veneers. Veneers are thin covers that are permanently attached to the teeth after etching. Removing dental veneers requires the construction of an alternative covering. Moreover, veneers can be costly, prone to breakage, and typically have a lifespan of less than 20 years.
What Does Invisalign® Treatment Involve?
The dentist must first create an initial treatment plan before making the custom aligning trays. They use three-dimensional digital images of the entire jaw to manipulate specific teeth on a screen, view the jaw from different angles, and predict future facial changes. Essentially, this technology demonstrates how Invisalign® trays will impact facial aesthetics.
After the planning stage is finished, a distinctive collection of aligners is created. The specific number of aligners needed may differ for each person, but typically ranges from 20 to 29 sets per arch.
What Are Some Considerations When Wearing Invisalign® Trays?
Getting used to life with Invisalign® aligning trays may take a few weeks. It is crucial to wear the trays at all times, except while eating and drinking. Removing the trays during meals is important to prevent food from getting stuck between the tray and teeth, which can lead to tooth decay.
In most cases, new trays are required every two weeks, and visible progress can be observed between appointments. Undoubtedly, Invisalign® aligning trays have brought a revolution in the field of orthodontics. Invisalign® is widely recognized for its comfort and effectiveness.
Please feel free to reach out to our office if you have any inquiries regarding Invisalign®.
