We all want a perfect smile, but often the natural appearance of our teeth is not in line with our wishes. Fortunately, new technologies in dentistry have enabled many solutions for correcting crooked teeth, filling gaps, and solving bite problems. One of the fastest treatment options is Invisalign.
It consists of transparent aligner trays made of thin BPA-free plastic adapted to the individual’s teeth. It’s almost completely invisible, which makes Invisalign a popular choice, especially for people who matter about the aesthetic aspect of wearing braces.
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How Invisalign Works
Unlike traditional braces attached to the teeth with wires and brackets, these clear trays can be easily removed and put on. Plus, the lack of all that metal pieces makes them significantly more comfortable. Patients can wear Invisalign up to 22 hours a day, which most dental experts recommend.
The working mechanism of Invisalign is simple – these trays apply gentle but constant pressure on the teeth, slowly moving them into the desired position. During the treatment, the patient will most likely change several aligners since each one is worn for about two weeks, after which a replacement is necessary. Simply, the teeth have already moved, so they need a new alignment and a more comfortable tray.
Who Can and Who Can’t Wear Invisalign?
Invisalign can solve problems with crowded teeth or minor teeth gaps, as well as some mild and moderate bite problems such as underbite, crossbite, or open bite. Age is not an obstacle for wearing clear braces, given that they can equally benefit teens, adults, and even seniors. The only condition is good overall and dental health.
People with an untreated cavity or some inflammatory process of the jaw or oral cavity can’t wear an invisible prosthesis until the initial problems heal. The same goes if they suffer from gum problems that make them particularly sensitive or painful or if their teeth are damaged. Only after you solve those underlying issues can the dentist recommend Invisalign.
What If You’re Eligible to Wear Invisalign
At the initial consultation at San Luis Obispo Invisalign dentist, the expert will assess whether you’re a good candidate for this dental treatment. They’ll discuss your overall health, especially your dental health. You will get important information about the procedure, its effects, and advice on maintaining hygiene and achieving excellent results.
The next step is additional checks such as X-rays and taking a bite impression. These give the dentist a more detailed picture of the condition of your teeth, how your bite looks, and how much the teeth overlap, based on which they’ll assess whether invisible braces are the right solution for you. If they are, the next step is to make Invisalign braces for the first wear.
The dentist sends the instructions to the lab that makes aligner trays. Also, they send notes on how the treatment should go, including suggestions for all other aligners. After 3 to 4 weeks (the procedure lasts long because labs usually send the first trays to your dentist to make necessary corrections), you come to your dentist and officially start the treatment.
How Long You Have to Wear Invisalign
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question because each patient has different needs. The treatment length depends on the degree of the problem that needs to be solved, and it’s usually between a few months and two years. In a small number of cases that require only minor corrections, such as after wearing a fixed prosthesis, eight to ten weeks may be enough to achieve the desired results.
The more your teeth overlap and jut out, the longer you must wear these invisible foils. However, long-term wearing doesn’t always guarantee results. So the dentist must inform you about the ins and outs of this treatment and how to make it work. Thus, you’ll have realistic expectations and won’t be disappointed if you see no results after short wearing. Here you can see lists of allowed and forbidden foods during this treatment.
New technologies in dentistry have brought many innovative solutions for crooked teeth, like Invisalign. So schedule your consultation today and enjoy this functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing brace to help you get your teeth in the best condition without too much trouble.
