Invisalign® is a teeth-straightening treatment that entails wearing sets of custom-made transparent aligners over the teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces that use wires and brackets, the aligners are removable, which means wearers can take them off when they want to eat or brush their teeth. Learn about these clear aligners and how they are used to straighten misalignment.
Invisalign® clear aligners are fabricated from nearly invisible polyurethane plastic. Instead of being glued to the teeth like metal or clear braces, The aligners are removable for eating, brushing and flossing, or during important social events. This advantage can also be a drawback, however — patients have to stay committed to wearing the aligners for the minimum number of hours if they want effective results. Other benefits of Invisalign aligners over traditional braces include:
Clear aligner technology has improved with time and is now effective for correcting malocclusion that would otherwise have been too complex for this treatment option. However, there are cases where traditional braces would be more effective. The dentist can discuss this in detail with the patient.
The clear aligners use the same principle as traditional braces, putting controlled pressure on the teeth to shift them to a better position. Specialized computer software helps to guide the teeth’s movement from their current position to the correct place. The software breaks down the movement into several steps. For every step, the provider will produce two plastic trays or aligners to fit over the top and bottom row teeth.
The patient will wear the first set of aligners for two weeks, for at least 20-22 hours daily. After that, they will replace the pair with the next pair of aligners in the series to achieve the next movement progress. This process will continue until the teeth are in correct alignment.
In the past few years, Invisalign® has incorporated two features to make this a suitable orthodontic treatment option for teenagers. There is a unique “eruption tab” to preserve the space for undeveloped molars. Invisalign® for teens also has a compliance indicator that fades with wear. This helps ensure that the patient is wearing the trays according to the instructions, since treatment success depends on it.
One of the primary advantages of using Invisalign® is that the aligners are removable for maintenance and dental care. Patients need to brush their teeth after eating to prevent food debris and plaque from getting trapped in the aligners, which may contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. The aligners must also be cleaned regularly by brushing them and rinsing in lukewarm water.
Although Invisalign® clear aligners are different from braces, they offer the same basic outcome of straighter teeth. To learn more about clear aligners and how you can benefit from the process, contact the general dentist for an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.gladstonefamilydental.com or call Gladstone Family Dental And Implants at (816) 559-7943 for an appointment in our Gladstone office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in Gladstone, MO.
For most people, the most exciting day is when they take off the last Invisalign® tray to mark the end of the teeth straightening treatment. However, it can be disheartening to see that stains or discoloration occurred during treatment. Although this can happen with any orthodontic treatment, there are simple and effective ways to prevent…
Those looking to straighten their teeth discreetly and fast can opt for the Invisalign® system. This teeth straightening treatment employs a set of clear aligner trays to correct teeth alignment and bite. Once the treatment starts, it is necessary to take proper care of the Invisalign trays to keep them in good shape.The following goes…
Treating crooked teeth does not just improve your smile's appearance; it can also improve your dental health. Clear braces can straighten teeth, offering numerous benefits: Lower risks of tooth decay Lower risks of gum disease Decreased tooth or jaw pain Improved digestion Improved speechEven though they do not utilize traditional wires, brackets, and bands, clear…
Are you considering getting one or more cosmetic dentistry treatments to improve your self-image? Read on to learn more about available treatments. This review takes a closer look at the specific reasons why cosmetic dentistry patients often feel more confident in their smiles, providing them with more willingness to go out and pursue the things…
The following is a more detailed look at each benefit cosmetic dentistry services can provide.
Dealing with a dental emergency? Our dentist can provide the urgent care you need.
Once a smile makeover is complete, patients should expect to smile confidently, chew naturally and…
In what situations can dentures be fixed at home? Consider doing a DIY in cases…
Gum disease progresses in stages, but they all have one thing in common: the earlier…
Dental implants are one of the options that you get to explore if you are…
