Get Invisalign This New Year

New Year, new you! January is the perfect time to start a new, healthier lifestyle. Why not start it with Invisalign? Invisalign treatment involves the use of a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners that have been custom-made for your teeth only to move them gradually into position. These clear aligners are fabricated from a smooth BPA-free plastic that won't irritate your gums and cheeks as traditional metal braces can. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before progressing onto the next one in the series. The length of your treatment plan will depend on the seriousness of your case. On average, Invisalign takes approximately one year to straighten your smile. However, if only minor correction is needed, the treatment could be completed in as little as six months.

Unlike traditional metal braces, patients can remove the aligners to eat and drink their favorite foods without worrying about food particles becoming stuck between the wires and brackets. Since the aligners are removable, you can also brush and floss normally throughout the course of treatment to maintain good oral hygiene and ensure that there isn't any plaque buildup around or underneath the appliances. Just wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time each day to achieve the best results. You should also see your orthodontist for regular checkups every four to six weeks to ensure your treatment is moving along as planned.

How Does Invisalign Work?

With braces, the brackets and wires are attached directly to your teeth and hold the teeth in place until the treatment is complete. The Invisalign aligners are different as they use a system of clear trays that fit directly over your teeth. These trays are made of a flexible plastic material that is designed to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position over time. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before it is swapped for the next set in the series. Generally, you will need to wear your aligners for up to 22 hours a day, but patients have found that they can easily remove the aligners during meals and when brushing and flossing their teeth.

Unlike traditional orthodontic treatment, there are none of the dietary restrictions or uncomfortable orthodontic appliances associated with Invisalign. The entire process can generally take between nine to 18 months to complete, and during that time, you will be able to enjoy eating and drinking whatever you want. Patients also find that they feel more comfortable smiling during treatment, thanks to the fact that the aligners are clear and unobtrusive. 

Which Cases Can Invisalign Correct?

The effectiveness of the Invisalign treatment depends on the case, but you can generally expect the best results in mild to moderate cases of crowding and crookedness only. Severe malocclusions and bite issues usually do not respond well to Invisalign, although your orthodontist may still be able to address minor symptoms of the bite with this method.

Overbites, underbites, and crossbites are generally more difficult to correct with Invisalign than other types of misalignment. This is because they require more complex movements, and your aligners must often be worn for a longer period of time. Your dentist will be able to give you a better idea of how effective the treatment will be in your case after an evaluation.

If you would like to know more about what the treatment entails and what your options are, give us a call at (760) 804-0080 or schedule an online appointment to visit our dental practice in Carlsbad, CA.