Invisalign Revolutionized

Invisalign clear aligners have transformed orthodontic treatment, providing a popular alternative to traditional braces. The Invisalign system holds many advantages over the brackets and wires of conventional braces. Invisalign devices are practically unnoticeable and being fully removable, make it far easier to keep your teeth clean. You don’t have to be careful about what you eat, either – you just pop out the aligner.

Invisalign uses advanced technology to solve the problems of crowded, gapped or crooked teeth, and malocclusion, when the bite function does not work properly. People with orthodontic problems are often embarrassed about displaying their teeth, and Invisalign provides a comfortable and convenient solution that will allow you to show off your smile without feeling self-conscious.

The Invisalign Process

Invisalign appliances are custom-made from robust medical-grade plastic for a precise fit as they gradually shift your teeth into positions determined in your treatment plan. Series of aligners are worn during the treatment, with just a few teeth being repositioned during each stage. Each set of aligners is designed to be worn 22 hours a day for one to two weeks. The whole process generally takes about 12 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

Invisalign aligners have smooth edges that make them more comfortable than traditional braces, and they provide far greater control, through a series of precisely regulated movements of the teeth. Each aligner in the series moves your teeth slightly, applying the right amount of pressure in the right place at the right time.

The Invisalign system uses 3D computer imaging, a non-invasive process compared with traditional impressions. Digital imaging is also less intrusive than traditional 2D X-rays, and unlike old-style film X-rays, CAD (computer-aided design) dental technology provides an open environment that helps to eliminate feelings of claustrophobia.

Who Makes Invisalign Aligners?

The Invisalign system was developed by Align Technology, the U.S.-based global medical appliance company. It says Invisalign is the most advanced clear aligner system in the world. Invisalign can be used to treat simple or complex cases and features a proprietary SmartTrack system for more predictable and controlled realignment of teeth, with results that are easy to see at every stage of the process. Align Technology says Invisalign treatment costs about the same as that of conventional braces and is covered by many orthodontic insurance plans.

Health Benefits of Invisalign

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), straightening your teeth can significantly improve your oral health. Crowded teeth or teeth that are too widely spaced can result in gum disease. When teeth are in the correct position, the gums fit better around them, providing a barrier against infections. However, with traditional braces, it’s easy for bits of food to become lodged in the wires and brackets, posing the risk of a build-up of plaque and tartar – a major cause of gum disease and tooth decay. These infections can also spread to other areas of the body and lead to heart disease, diabetes and respiratory problems such as pneumonia. Because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can brush and floss your teeth as normal, maintaining a high standard of oral hygiene.

Correcting Bite Problems

Invisalign is used to correct many problems caused by misalignment of teeth, including bite issues such as:

  • Open bite, when the upper and lower teeth fail to make proper contact.
  • Overbite, when the upper front teeth overlap their lower counterparts.
  • Underbite, when the lower teeth project beyond the upper teeth.
  • Crossbite, when the upper teeth bite on the inside of the lower teeth.

Invisalign FAQs

Questions that Coeur d’Alene Dental Center are often asked about Invisalign include:

Are there any food restrictions with Invisalign?

No. Because you take the aligners out for meals, you can eat whatever you like.

Will I be able to speak clearly with Invisalign?

It may take a couple of days to get used to your aligners, and a few patients have a slight lisp initially. However, most patients don’t notice any change in their speech.

Does Invisalign hurt?

Your teeth may feel a little sensitive for a few days after you put in a new set of aligners. This means Invisalign is working, and your teeth are moving into place. Discomfort is mild and quickly goes away.

How do I clean my aligners?

It’s easy! Just use a toothbrush and toothpaste and rinse them with lukewarm water.

How often do I need to see my dentist during Invisalign treatment?

About every 12 weeks to make sure your treatment is progressing as it should.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Invisalign treatment time differs from case to case. It could be as little as six months but more often about a year. With particularly complex cases, the treatment time could be up to two years.

Will I need to wear a retainer after my Invisalign treatment?

Yes. A retainer is necessary after Invisalign (or conventional braces) to ensure your teeth don’t move back out of alignment. Eventually, you’ll only need to wear your retainer at night.

How do I know whether Invisalign is right for me?

Invisalign is not for everyone. The only person who can determine whether Invisalign is right for you is an experienced dentist or orthodontist.

How much does Invisalign cost?

The cost of Invisalign treatment depends on the complexity of your case and how many sets of aligners you’ll need.

Talk to an Invisalign Provider

Invisalign lets you get on with your life with none of the hassle associated with traditional braces and can turn your life around by boosting your self-esteem and allowing you to show off your smile without embarrassment. The convenience of Invisalign teeth straighteners in being easy to put in and take out makes them the most popular removable dental brace.

An Invisalign provider will be able to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for Invisalign. If you are, they will talk you through the whole process and produce a personalized plan of treatment to restore your healthy smile and your self-regard.