What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic solution that uses a series of customized aligners made from BPA-free plastic to gradually—yet discreetly—correct minor to moderate dental misalignment so patients can achieve a straighter smile. This cosmetic dentistry treatment is virtually invisible and is suitable for both teens and adults looking for an inconspicuous alternative to fixed metal braces. Whereas traditional metal braces involve bonding brackets and wires to the front surface of your teeth, Invisalign aligners are clear and form-fitting, yet easily removable.
In addition to traditional Invisalign, Dr. Turner also offers Invisalign® Teen and Invisalign® Express. Invisalign Teen has a few differences in that aligners have a blue indicator dot to help teens keep track of their treatment timeline. Because your timeline results are dependent on how often aligners are worn, the blue indicator dot can help teens who may struggle with structure and discipline. In case aligners are lost, the system includes six complimentary replacement trays. For patients with minimal crowding or spacing issues looking for a faster treatment timeline, Invisalign Express can deliver results in about six months or less.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign orthodontic aligners are crafted from clear acrylic and custom fitted to gradually realign your teeth over the course of your treatment. Perhaps the greatest benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are nearly transparent. Most people will not even notice you are wearing them.
Invisalign offers a more comfortable orthodontic solution than traditional metal braces that use brackets, wires, and rubber bands. Traditional braces require frequent and sometimes painful adjustments to align your teeth. Invisalign aligners apply gentle force to your teeth with minimal discomfort and require less frequent visits.
Because the aligners are removable, they offer more convenience than traditional braces. There are no “off-limits” foods to get stuck in the brackets, such as caramel, taffy, or popcorn. Being able to remove the aligners also makes cleaning and caring for you teeth much simpler.
Invisalign orthodontic treatment can sometimes be completed in half the time of the treatment length of traditional braces. Most Invisalign treatment can be completed within nine to 18 months, or less for express treatment. Traditional methods can take two years or more.
Perhaps one of the greatest advantages to achieving a straighter smile includes the long-term oral health benefits that are included. When teeth overlap or are crooked, food and plaque can become easily trapped, increasing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Even if you maintain proper oral hygiene habits, it can be difficult to keep your teeth adequately clean. Straighter teeth not only look more attractive but are generally healthier. When teeth are properly positioned, it makes brushing and flossing more efficient and provides adequate support and stability for your teeth, gums, and jawbone.
We offer treatment options for adults and teens as well as an express option for patients with less severe misalignment who want fast results.
Invisalign Treatment Process
Dr. Turner and his staff are well versed in the Invisalign treatment process. Several members of his staff have either undergone or are currently undergoing Invisalign treatment. Almost anyone at our office can address questions you may have about treatment.
During your first orthodontic visit at our office, we will take scans of your teeth and utilize a computer program to develop a custom treatment plan for you that will result in proper alignment. Dr. Turner can tell you approximately how many aligners you will receive over the course of your treatment and how long your treatment will last.
Once your first set of aligners is ready, you will return to our office to pick them up. You will need to wear each set for approximately 22 hours each day for two weeks before moving on to the next set. After these first two appointments, you will only need to return to our office every six weeks to pick up your new aligners and so that Dr. Turner can check your progress.
Side Effects of Invisalign
Although Invisalign aligners are intended to fit tightly over your top and bottom teeth, you may notice a slight lisp when learning to speak with your aligners. Rest assured, this is only temporary. As your teeth adjust, your speech patterns will improve. However, if you have an important speaking engagement and are concerned your aligners may get in the way, you can simply remove your aligners for better clarity and peace of mind.
Although Invisalign aligners are not as painful as metal braces, you may feel some pressure in your teeth, gums, and jawbone as teeth begin to straighten. Aligners are designed to place gradual pressure on your teeth so as to minimize discomfort. Most people notice increased soreness within the first one to two days after aligners are switched out.
What to Avoid during Invisalign Treatment
Aligners should be worn for the full two weeks. Although it may be tempting to skip an aligner or switch out your aligners early to help speed up your treatment, this can actually be detrimental to your alignment and cause significant delays in your treatment timeline.
Aligners should be removed for eating and drinking anything other than water. If you drink anything hot or dark-colored, aligners could warp or stain. Before placing your trays back in your mouth, be sure and brush and floss to remove any remaining food from the crevices of your teeth. If you are in a situation where this is not feasible, rinsing your mouth with water will suffice.
When cleaning your aligners, be sure to use cold water and gently brush your them with an electric or soft-bristled toothbrush. You should also avoid soaking them in mouthwash, as anything too abrasive could damage them or cause them to become dull.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you would like straighter teeth and want a low-profile orthodontic treatment option, Invisalign may be the solution you have been searching for. Contact our office online today or call (816) 229-1433 to talk about Invisalign cost, the treatment process, or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Turner.
