Invisalign: What You Need to Know Before Getting the Braces?
We all desire a great smile. But, a few problems like misaligned teeth and bite issues can make this a challenge for some people. Misaligned teeth affect the dental structure and also oral health as they may make it hard to clean the hard-to-reach places. This increases the risk of decay and gum infection. Correcting these problems is crucial to your appearance and oral health, and orthodontic treatment can help with that.
Traditional braces have been the most commonly used orthodontic device. But, if you are looking for a less conspicuous treatment, clear braces near you may work great. Invisalign® braces are the most used clear aligners.
What Are Invisalign?
Invisalign braces are transparent aligners made with a thermoplastic material that is customized to fit your teeth. The treatment includes a set of removable aligners that work gradually to straighten the teeth without using wires.
The material used is safe and does not contain materials like latex, which makes it ideal for people with allergies. A dentist near you will use advanced 3D imaging technology to create the aligners.
Invisalign Vs. Braces; Which One is Better?
Both the clear and traditional braces reposition the teeth. However, the two differ in appearance, comfort, cost, and how the treatment is done. The traditional braces come with wires and brackets that are fixed on the teeth. These are visible, and you need to visit the dental office to have them adjusted.
The metal wires in the traditional braces can break, and you need immediate treatment when that happens. It is crucial to visit an emergency dentist near you for assistance to prevent further damage.
The Invisalign aligners are made of clear aligners that take on your natural teeth color, making them almost invisible. You will receive a set of aligners over the treatment process. You will, however, need to visit the dentist to monitor the treatment process.
It is easy to maintain your oral hygiene with Invisalign aligners because they are removable. The traditional braces are limiting when it comes to the foods you can eat as the wires tend to trap the food particles.
How is the Invisalign Treatment Done?
The Invisalign treatment is done in three phases, that include:
- Phase One: The planning stage:
The dentist will begin the process with a smile scan using a 3D imaging scanner that captures precise impressions of your teeth. He will then use software to map the treatment and determine the pressure needed to move the teeth. The dentist will also show you a preview of your expected results and what the teeth will look like after the treatment.
- Phase Two: The treatment process
The dentist will give you a series of aligners worn for 22 hours daily, two weeks a set. Each aligner will move your teeth gradually throughout the treatment. It is important to wear the braces for the recommended time frame to allow the treatment to be successful. It is also advisable to visit the dentist every six to eight weeks to examine the progress of the treatment.
- Phase Three: Retention phase
It can take about 9 to 18 months to have the teeth aligned. However, after the treatment is done, the dentist will give a retainer. This holds the teeth in the new position and prevents them from reverting. In the first few days, you may need to wear the retainer devices all the time, and, after that, you will need to wear them at night. But, our dentist will share instructions on how to use the retainer for the best results.
How Can You Care for The Invisalign Aligners?
It is important to care for the Invisible aligners to make them last longer, and here are a few tips:
- Always remove the clear braces before eating; otherwise the foods will stain the braces
- Clean the aligners daily when brushing your teeth
- Rinse the braces before putting them on
- Soak the aligners in a solution to keep them moist
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Chaparral Valley Dental for more information about the clear aligners and how the treatment is done.