Invisalign orthodontic treatment has grown in popularity as an alternative to traditional braces. This is because people, especially adults, often prefer to straighten their teeth discreetly without wearing uncomfortable and noticeable metal brackets and wires over their teeth. Invisalign can correct an array of orthodontic problems, including:
Invisalign was previously believed to be a treatment for very minor cosmetic issues with your tooth alignment such as crooked teeth or closing small gaps. However, Invisalign Attachments have changed everything. Attachments are small, tooth-colored pieces that are bonded to the teeth to anchor the aligners, allowing them to exert extra pressure where needed, expanding Invisalign’s suitability for more severe malocclusions such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
call (727) 789-1212Invisalign works by exerting gentle pressure onto the teeth to gradually shift them. While the aligners are removable, for them to do their job, you need to wear them for a minimum of 22 hours per day.
This makes accountability an important part of Invisalign treatment because the aligners aren’t glued to your teeth. You will receive aligners that are fabricated from impressions that are taken of your teeth and sent to a dental lab, where they can digitally plan your entire treatment.
You will be able to see the exact tooth movements that will be performed throughout your treatment in real time. You can also view what your final alignment will look like. If you have specific teeth that need a little help rotating in a certain way, Attachments will be bonded to your teeth.
These are little buttons made of a composite resin that is matched to the shade of your natural teeth. They are hardly noticeable and no one will see them when your aligners are on. They help the aligners exert the force necessary to rotate specific teeth.
Once you receive your aligners, you will change them every 2 weeks. Your teeth will continue to shift throughout your treatment until they are finally completely straight. Any attachments on your teeth will be removed and we will create a retainer for you to wear to maintain your new alignment.
There are so many benefits to wearing Invisalign clear aligners over traditional metal braces. They’re transparent so no one will notice that you’re wearing them and they are much more comfortable than braces.
Since they’re removable, you can eat whatever you want and you can brush your teeth thoroughly. This will prevent discoloration and tooth decay which is a big problem with patients who wear braces.
You don’t need to attend as many dental visits because you don’t need to have adjustments made or braces tightened. You will only return about every 6 weeks for routine checkups and to receive additional aligners.
Your questions, answered.
Invisalign treatment is generally faster than braces but this is likely because people with severe orthodontic problems are going to need braces to address them. Ultimately, the length of your treatment depends on the complexity of your case and how well you comply with treatment.
Very minor issues such as small gaps or minor crooked teeth can be corrected in as little as 6 months. However, the average length of treatment for Invisalign is more like 12 to 18 months. The best way to make sure you don’t extend your treatment time is to consistently wear your aligners for 22 hours per day.
If you want to straighten your teeth in a more discreet, comfortable, and hygienic way, then Invisalign is the perfect solution! Give your dentist in Palm Harbor a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ramos.
A gorgeous smile can make all the difference in your life. With our help, you can achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Fill in the online form or call us at (727) 789-1212 to make an appointment!