Orthodontic care diagnoses and treats dental and facial irregularities, correcting issues like misaligned teeth, malocclusions, and jaw issues. Various treatments, including braces and clear aligners, are used to gradually align the teeth and jaw into their optimal positions. Clear aligners are an alternative to braces for adjusting tooth alignment. Invisalign is a well-known brand of these transparent, plastic trays that are custom-made to fit over your teeth. Here’s more information on Invisalign treatments and how they can benefit your smile:
Treating Minor Tooth Concerns Subtly
Clear aligners have a discreet appearance, so trays are nearly invisible, allowing for a subtle treatment process that does not alter your daily appearance. This makes them a popular choice for adults and teens. Aligners, like Invisalign, work by applying controlled pressure to specific teeth, gradually shifting them into a more desirable position over time.
Who Are They For?
During Invisalign treatment, you wear a series of aligner trays, and each set is designed to make slight adjustments to your tooth placement. This treatment option is often suitable for individuals with minor to moderate orthodontic concerns, including:
- Slightly Crooked Teeth
- Small Gapped Teeth
- Minor Bite Irregularities
A dental professional can determine if clear aligners are an appropriate treatment option for your needs through a thorough examination.
What Is the Process Like?
Clear aligner treatment begins with a consultation where a dentist or orthodontist will assess your teeth and jaw. If you are a suitable candidate, they will take digital scans or physical impressions of your teeth. These images are used to create a precise, 3D model for your custom care plan, which maps out the projected movement of your teeth from beginning to end. You will then receive a series of custom-made aligners, each worn for about one to two weeks before moving on to the next set.
Enabling Consistent Oral Hygiene
Maintaining oral health during orthodontic treatment is invaluable, and clear aligners offer distinct advantages. Because the aligners are removable, you can continue your regular oral hygiene routine without obstruction. You can take the trays out to eat, drink, brush, and floss as you normally would, which helps prevent the buildup of plaque and food particles that can sometimes occur with traditional braces. Proper care for the aligners themselves is also straightforward.
Your trays should be cleaned regularly to keep them clear and hygienic, as recommended by your provider. Clear aligners are widely favored by dental professionals and patients alike, as they make it easier to maintain periodontal health while making adjustments. Current research indicates that Invisalign treatments can even be used for people with periodontitis, or gum disease. This means some individuals can benefit from orthodontic adjustments while reducing their active infection.
Customizing Your Invisalign Plan
No two mouths are the same, so your aligners are specifically made for your unique dental structure and orthodontic goals. Successful results with Invisalign depend heavily on your custom treatment plan and your consistency in wearing them. To achieve lasting results, wear your aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day and attend your check-ups. Follow-up appointments allow your dentist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment.
Contact a Dentist Today to Learn More
Choosing an orthodontic treatment is a significant decision. Orthodontic treatments contribute to better oral function, easier hygiene maintenance, and long-term dental health. To learn more, contact an orthodontist for a consultation, as they can determine what treatments are best for your needs.
