When teeth are crooked, crowded, overlapped or out of position one of the best ways to create a beautiful smile is with orthodontic braces. If you’ve always wanted straight, even teeth but have been hesitant to wear braces with metal brackets and wires over your teeth, Invisalign may be the perfect solution. Invisalign, often referred to as “clear braces”, are medical-grade plastic trays that you wear over your teeth to move the teeth into a better, more esthetic position.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a new tooth straightening system that replaces the need for braces and retainers. Instead, you wear a series of clear plastic trays that are custom-made for your teeth. These invisible “aligners” slowly move teeth into position, creating a straight, flawless smile without pain or discomfort.
Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign is clear and convenient. You’ll wear each aligner for two weeks, gradually moving your teeth into place. You can remove the aligners to eat, brush your teeth or on special occasions. Best of all, with the virtually undetectable devices, no one needs to know that you’re straightening your teeth. Invisalign makes it easy to obtain the comfort and confidence that comes with an even, healthy smile.
Crooked teeth are just unattractive—they make it more difficult to maintain good oral hygiene, and can cause long-term problems with bite alignment that may lead to TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder). In the long run, these problems can cost much more to repair than simply straightening your teeth with Invisalign today.
Will people know I’m having my teeth straightened?
One of the advantages of Invisalign over any other type of tooth alignment is that it is virtually invisible. There are no wires, no brackets, and no orthodontic retainers—just clear plastic aligners that fit like a thin shell over your teeth.
How long does Invisalign straightening take?
You’ll wear each aligner for two weeks, but the exact number of aligner sets depends on the condition of your teeth and the alignment of your bite. Invisalign straightening is often performed in under a year, but the length of time varies from person to person. It’s best to ask Dr, Brady at your initial consultation for an estimate of how long the procedure is likely to take.
Will Invisalign damage my teeth?
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign can be removed at any time, so it’s easy to perform thorough routine cleanings. Nothing is ever cemented to your teeth, and there is no risk of damage.
I’ve had braces or other orthodontia before, and my teeth are crooked again. How do I know that Invisalign’s results will last?
In most cases, teeth revert to being crooked after braces because wisdom teeth come in and push your bite back out of alignment. As an adult, there’s no reason to worry about wisdom teeth. Any other concerns should be discussed with Dr. Brady at your first appointment.