Invisalign® produces aligners that are more comfortable and less noticeable than the conventional dental braces of the past. Striving to provide patients with improved smiles but without the hassle of metal braces, the company uses clear aligners that are placed directly over the teeth, and they can shift teeth in the necessary directions for the desired effect. The aligners were approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the late 1990s and have grown in use due to the level of comfort and improved results they provide patients.
The aligners used for treatment are made of an FDA-approved thermoplastic called SmartTrack®. Using 3-D technology, a dentist can recreate a patient’s mouth and adjust the teeth within the program to find the proper tooth alignment for the specific patient. Since the aligners are custom-fit, wearing them for the required amount of time and properly caring for the aligners is important.
Doctors recommend wearing the aligners for the majority of the day, which might be anywhere from 20 to 22 hours. The constant contact time allows the aligners to gradually shift the teeth just like the wires and brackets on traditional braces. They can be removed when brushing the teeth, drinking or eating. Rechecks are typically performed every one to two weeks, and the aligners may be changed at that time, depending on how well the teeth are shifting. While results may be seen within weeks of starting the process, Invisalign® treatment can last 12 to 18 months overall.
The aligners should be worn as recommended by the provider to work effectively. Without the custom fit of the aligners, the pressure is not applied to the teeth, and they will not shift into place as planned before initiating treatment. By wearing them incorrectly, a patient may delay the implementation of the next set of aligners, and this can increase the overall time necessary for treatment. In some cases, the dentist may need to readjust the treatment plan, leading to more cost and more dental visits for the patient.
To decrease bad breath and bacteria buildup, teeth should be brushed before aligners are placed back inside the mouth, even after meals or snacks. To clean the aligners, the doctor may recommend the Invisalign Cleaning System® that is created for the aligners. However, proper cleaning can also be accomplished with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Be aware that lukewarm water is preferable when cleaning the aligners because hot water will cause the plastic to morph in shape. If this occurs, the aligner will not fit properly inside the mouth, and a new one may have to be created by the dentist.
Invisalign® uses computer technology to produce aligners that can help improve a patient’s smile. By following the recommendations of the doctor and making sure to treat the aligners with care, patients may find themselves with their desired smile in just over a year’s time.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbydesignhuntsville.com or call Smiles by Design, PC at (256) 660-3233 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Tooth loss can affect how you eat and speak, as well as how your smile looks. Restorative solutions, like implant crowns, are important for maintaining your dental and overall health. Implant crowns are strong and resemble natural teeth, blending well with surrounding teeth. They imitate the structure of real teeth, providing long-term benefits for those…
A dental restoration can improve your appearance and dental health. Your dentist can help you prepare for your procedure. The consultation can also tell you how you should care for your new smile. Here are the details if you want to know how to maintain your dental restoration for lasting results.Some fluoride treatments and toothpaste…
Any dental restoration can be challenging to budget for. Discussing the particulars with your dentist can help you get a clear idea of the final amount. Understanding the specific elements of your dental procedure is important in setting your budget. Here is a comprehensive guide for determining the cost of your dental restoration.This dental restoration…
There are many reasons why you might be considering switching from a general dentist to a family dentist. Perhaps you have moved to a different town, or maybe you are starting to go to the dentist for the first time in several years. Whatever the reasons are, you might be wondering what the difference between…