The Invisalign method of braces is the process of creating clear molds that act as aligners in order to straighten your teeth. The orthodontist takes impressions of your teeth which are sent to an Invisalign lab. The lab then creates molds. Highly advanced digital technology used by the lab creates the retainers or clear liners in approximately 2 weeks' time. Next, they will be shipped back to your orthodontist so that you can try them on.
Compared to traditional metal orthodontic braces that are comprised of wires and brackets, the Invisalign aligners are barely visible due to their clear nature. In about 2 or 3 weeks, you will move to the next set of Invisalign aligners with the guidance of your orthodontist. The amount of Invisalign aligners will depend on the particular orthodontic issue and the patient.
Invisalign aligners are quite comfortable. Of course, it is common to experience some mild pain or discomfort when the new aligner is placed as it exerts pressure on the teeth to make them move. There are no wires to poke or break or brackets to accidently fall off, as is commonly the case with traditional metal orthodontic braces.
The Invisalign system offers a total aesthetic improvement in comparison to traditional metal braces. Your initial set of Invisalign aligners should be worn for approximately 3 weeks and then the next set will be introduced. The complete amount of aligners that you will wear during your Invisalign journey will depend on your particular dental issues and their severity. There is some mild discomfort but this is the norm with all kinds of dental systems as they are gradually putting forces on your teeth to make them move.
Invisalign braces are generally for adults. They are not suitable for kids who are still awaiting their permanent set of adult teeth to grow in. It is important to mention that not all patients are great candidates for Invisalign. It is recommended that you meet with multiple Invisalign orthodontists in order to determine if you will be a successful candidate. The end result will depend upon the necessary movements that are needed to solve your dental problems.
Remember that the Invisalign aligners need to be worn as consistently as possible in order to achieve the desired results. Due to the fact that they are removable, patients may be tempted to take them out frequently. It is recommended that the trays are worn for 20 to 22 hours every day. Keeping track of them once you remove them can also be an issue. When deciding either on traditional braces or this newer system, it is vital to take all points into consideration in order to come up with the system that best works for you.
The cosmetic advantage offered by Invisalign is one of the main benefits this kind of treatment offers. Since the aligners are completely transparent, they are much less detectable than traditional wire and bracket braces. This is a highly appealing factor among patients who wish to correct their misalignment without having to deal with the "metal mouth" that comes with metal braces.
Another huge advantage is that there are no food sacrifices to make with Invisalign since the aligners are removable. With metal braces, there is a long list of foods to avoid since they can get easily trapped in the brackets and also break the appliance. Tooth decay and gum disease are further problems that may result with wearing metal braces over time. Statistics say that approximately 50% of those who wear traditional braces experience greater tooth and gum issues as cleaning are often hindered with the metal brackets cemented onto the teeth. Not being able to remove them when brushing or eating leads to more potential of trapped food items.