What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign is a relatively new type of orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, plastic mouthpieces to gradually straighten and align your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, there are no wires, brackets, or rubber bands to worry about.
Invisalign aligners are made of a flexible thermoplastic called SmartTrack®. SmartTrack is free of all allergens, including BPS, BPA, gluten, and latex, making treatment safe for pregnant women and those with sensitivities.
What issues can Invisalign treatment correct?
The team at West End Dental typically recommends Invisalign to correct mild and moderate orthodontic issues, including:
- Overcrowded teeth
- Misaligned jaw
- Crossbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
They also use Invisalign to close gaps or spaces between teeth.
What is the Invisalign treatment process?
Invisalign treatment begins with an oral exam and discussion of your goals for treatment. Your West End Dental provider takes digital X-rays and digital impressions. Afterward, they upload your impressions to a software program and develop a customized treatment plan, mapping out the step-by-step movements of your teeth.
Then the team sends your impressions to a laboratory that manufactures your first set of aligners. A week or two later, you return to West End Dental and try them on. It’s normal to experience some tooth sensitivity and mild pressure at first, but this should subside within a day or two.
Throughout Invisalign treatment, you wear your aligners 20-22 hours each day. Every two or three weeks, you visit West End Dental and change into a new set.
How long does Invisalign take?
The length of Invisalign treatment varies, but most people experience their desired results within 6-12 months. Make sure to wear your aligners as prescribed and only take them out for cleaning or while eating. The closer you adhere to your treatment plan, the sooner you’ll finish.
After you’re done wearing the aligners, you transition to a retainer. A retainer is a custom oral appliance that prevents your teeth from reverting to their original position.
How do I care for my Invisalign aligners?
Caring for your Invisalign aligners is easy. The team at West End Dental recommends rinsing them in cool tap water once or twice a day and brushing them with a soft-bristle toothbrush at night. For more thorough cleanings, ask your provider about the Invisalign cleaning solution.
To see if you’re a candidate for Invisalign, schedule an appointment at West End Dental. Book a consultation online, or call the office to speak with a member of the administrative staff today.
