Invisalign is a modern orthodontic technique that has revolutionised how teeth can be straightened. It is a form of teeth alignment that uses a series of clear plastic aligners to move the teeth into the desired position slowly. This article will discuss what Invisalign is, how it works, how it compares to traditional braces, and the advantages of using Invisalign.
The process of using Invisalign begins with a visit to an experienced orthodontist. The orthodontist will take 3D images of the teeth and use the data to create a customised treatment plan. This plan will outline the exact movements of the teeth throughout the treatment.
Next, the patient will receive a series of plastic aligners that will be worn at all times, except when eating or cleaning the teeth. The aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours a day, and each aligner is worn for two weeks before being replaced with the next one in the series.
The teeth will move into the desired position as the aligners are worn.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that utilises a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth, but what exactly is the process behind this popular dental treatment?
The Invisalign treatment plan begins with a consultation with an orthodontic specialist to evaluate the current condition of the teeth and determine if the treatment is a suitable option for the patient.
During the consultation, the orthodontist will take impressions of the teeth and create a mould to create personalised aligner trays.
The aligner trays are made of thin, plastic aligners designed to perfectly fit the patient’s teeth. Aligner users must wear the trays for at least 20-22 hours daily for straightening.
The teeth gradually shift into position throughout the custom treatment plan as the aligner trays are replaced.
Invisalign is an effective, comfortable, and discreet option for those who desire to have straight teeth.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Alignment is achieved through a customised series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move teeth into the desired position. Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces, offering a more subtle and comfortable orthodontic treatment option. Unlike metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth.
The Invisalign treatment process begins with an initial consultation with an orthodontist to determine if the aligners are the right solution for the patient’s orthodontic issues. If so, the patient will be given a series of aligners to wear for 20-22 hours per day for two weeks, with each set slowly shifting the teeth into place.
This process will repeat until the patient’s teeth are in the desired position; at this point, the patient will need to wear a retainer to maintain the results. Following the Invisalign plan allows patients to experience improved oral health and an attractive, straight smile.
How Does Invisalign Compare to Traditional Braces?
Comparing Invisalign to traditional metal braces requires an examination of their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Traditional metal braces are a tried and true orthodontic method used for years to straighten misaligned teeth. This method involves hours in the orthodontist’s chair, and a metal wire is attached to the teeth and tightened to create a straighter smile.
Invisalign is a modern alternative to braces, using invisible trays made from BPA-free plastic to move teeth incrementally. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages, but Invisalign may be the ideal treatment for many seeking a straighter smile.
Invisalign is much less noticeable than traditional metal braces, making it a desirable option for adults or teens who wish to keep their orthodontic treatment discreet. In addition, Invisalign is often much faster than traditional braces, taking as little as 12 months to complete the ideal treatment.
On the other hand, metal braces are more affordable than Invisalign and can be used to correct more serious misalignments. Ultimately, the choice between traditional metal braces and Invisalign depends on the patient’s individual needs and the advice of their orthodontist.
What Are the Advantages of Invisalign?
The modern orthodontic technique of Invisalign offers numerous advantages for those seeking to straighten their teeth. Invisalign utilises sets of aligners that gently pressure the teeth to move them into the desired position.
The patient works with an Invisalign-trained orthodontist to create an individual treatment plan tailored to their needs and recommendations for the corrective treatment. This form of retainer is practically invisible, making it a much less noticeable alternative to traditional braces.
Additionally, Invisalign can correct spacing, bite issues, and other teeth misalignments with greater precision than traditional braces. Invisalign also requires more outstanding patient commitment and compliance to be effective.
Patients must wear the aligners for the prescribed amount of time each day for the teeth to move in the desired manner. However, the convenience of being able to remove the aligners for eating or for any other activities more than makes up for this requirement.
If the patient follows their dentist’s instructions and wears the aligners for the prescribed amount each day, they can expect to have straight, beautiful teeth in a much shorter period than traditional braces.
Key Takeaways
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that provides an alternative to traditional braces. It is a series of custom-made, clear, removable aligners to gradually move teeth into the desired position.
Invisalign is often preferred over traditional braces due to its convenience and comfort. Compared to conventional braces, Invisalign offers less time in the dentist’s office and fewer restrictions on food and lifestyle. Additionally, it is more aesthetically pleasing for many, as it is nearly invisible and much less noticeable than metal braces.
For example, a patient needing orthodontic treatment achieved their desired smile in a fraction of the time with Invisalign compared to traditional braces. After just one year, they reached their perfect smile with minimal discomfort and without needing metal braces.
This is just one example of how Invisalign offers a safe, effective, and convenient treatment for those looking to improve their smile.
If you or a loved one want a practical, convenient, and discreet orthodontic treatment option, visit Majestic Smiles in Lower Plenty, VIC. Our experienced dentists in Lower Plenty specialise in Invisalign treatment and have helped many patients achieve their desired smiles. Contact us today to learn more about how Invisalign can help you get the straight and beautiful teeth you have always wanted.