Invisalign® is a highly popular modern orthodontic treatment used to properly align the teeth and bite. While past orthodontic treatments required the use of bulky metal brackets and wires, Invisalign® can achieve similar end results and retention rates using a clear aligner system. These aligners are fabricated from Invsialign’s patented SmartTrack material, which provides the perfect fit and amount of force needed for effective results. These discrete and comfortable aligners make Invisalign® an ideal choice for teen and adult orthodontic treatment.
In the world of dentistry, advances in technology have led to treatments that are not only effective but also focus on patient comfort and aesthetics. Among these, Invisalign stands out as a stellar alternative to the traditional metal braces. At 3D Dentistry in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Samoset, FL, our expertise merges with state-of-the-art technology to offer you this revolutionary teeth-straightening method.
Did You Know?
Although many people value Invisalign® for their discreet aligners, there is so much more to Invisalign® treatment. For starters, Invisalign® uses the latest technology to improve both the efficiency of the aligners and their patient’s overall orthodontic experience.
Signs You Might Benefit from Invisalign
The Superiority of Invisalign
For good reasons, the Invisalign system stands out as a modern marvel in orthodontic treatments. A key appeal of Invisalign lies in its near-invisibility. Made from transparent, medical-grade plastic, these aligners offer both adults and teens the chance to refine their smiles without the tell-tale signs of metal brackets and wires. Not only do they promise aesthetic discretion, but the design also ensures unmatched comfort. With their smooth edges, there’s no dealing with poking wires or abrasive brackets. Moreover, their removable nature ensures that daily oral care routines remain seamless and dining remains an unrestricted pleasure.
But the superiority of Invisalign doesn’t end at comfort and aesthetics. It’s a synthesis of style and precision. Incorporating cutting-edge 3D imaging technology, Invisalign provides a comprehensive roadmap for your orthodontic journey. This tech-driven approach means patients aren’t left in the dark; they’re given a virtual preview of their treatment progression and the transformative results they can anticipate. This combination of predictability and state-of-the-art technology solidifies Invisalign’s position as a frontrunner in orthodontic solutions.
Journeying with Invisalign: The Process
- Comprehensive Consultation: Your Invisalign journey commences with a detailed evaluation where our doctor assesses your oral health, understands your goals and determines the suitability of Invisalign for your unique needs.
- Tailored Treatment Design: We harness the power of cutting-edge 3D imaging to visualize and plan the progressive movement of each tooth. This roadmap serves as the blueprint for your custom aligners.
- Transition Through Aligner Sets: Every set of aligners, meticulously crafted for your teeth, is worn for about two weeks. With each set, your teeth move closer to the desired alignment.
Ensuring the Best Outcome
After the journey of aligning your teeth with Invisalign, the retention phase becomes an essential chapter in ensuring lasting results. Once treatment concludes, custom-made retainers play a pivotal role. Crafted with the same precision as your aligners, these retainers are designed to hold teeth in their newly acquired positions. This stabilization period is critical, especially as the gums and bone adjust to the reshaped dental structure. In addition to utilizing retainers, regular dental visits are indispensable. These check-ups provide an opportunity for our doctor to assess the stability of your new smile, ensuring it remains as radiant as ever, and to identify any early signs of potential oral health challenges.
Beyond post-treatment procedures, personal responsibility in maintaining impeccable oral hygiene takes center stage. With teeth positioned in their new alignments, thorough cleaning is imperative to safeguard your smile’s aesthetic brilliance and fortify ongoing dental health. Moreover, the financial and time investment you’ve committed to the Invisalign process should be protected. This means taking meticulous care of the aligners themselves. When not in use, they should be securely stored in their designated case, cleaned with the prescribed methods, and shielded from conditions that might compromise their integrity, such as extreme temperatures. Your proactive role is crucial in preserving the fruits of your Invisalign journey.
A Future Illuminated by Invisalign
Embracing Invisalign goes beyond acquiring a captivating smile. Aligned teeth offer easier cleaning, reduce undue stress on jaw joints, and diminish wear on tooth surfaces. Additionally, a straight smile often translates into improved self-esteem, positively influencing personal and professional interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for Invisalign®?
You may be a candidate for Invisalign® if you have:
- Crooked teeth
- Overlapping teeth
- Gaps between the teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Crossbite
Invisalign® is able to be used for phase I orthodontic treatment in children, as well as for phase II orthodontic treatment for teens and adults. However, severe cases may require another type of orthodontic treatment. To determine if you are an ideal candidate for Invisalign®, schedule an evaluation with your Bradenton Invisalign dentist today.
What can I expect when being evaluated for Invisalign®?
When you are evaluated for Invisalign®, you can expect to have your dentist examine your teeth and bite. You can also expect that they will use an iTero scanner, which is a small wand. The scanner will be inserted into your mouth to obtain the same type of information as a dental impression. By taking about 6,000 images per second, the scanner will then compile this information into a single 3-D image of your mouth. This information is then used with Invisalign®’s ClinCheck software to determine your eligibility and predict your final results. This software can also predict how long your treatment is expected to last and how many aligners will be needed.
What can I expect when undergoing Invisalign® treatment?
When undergoing Invisalign® treatment, you can expect to wear your clear aligners for a minimum of 22 hours a day. For the best treatment results, your aligners should only be removed when eating, drinking colored beverages, brushing, and flossing. You can also expect to progress to a new aligner approximately every 1-2 weeks. However, you will only need to check in with your Invisalign® dentist every 6-8 weeks. This is because your dentist will provide you with multiple new aligners and their instructions every appointment. Nevertheless, appointments are still necessary for your dentist to make sure the treatment plan is working properly.
Does Invisalign® hurt?
There can be some minor discomfort or soreness when starting Invisalign® treatment or when progressing to a new aligner. However, this usually only lasts a day or two and can be easily managed with over the counter pain medications, if needed. Most people report Invisalign® being generally comfortable, especially when compared to traditional wire braces.
How long does treatment with Invisalign® last?
On average, treatment with Invisalign® lasts about a year and a half. However, the length of your treatment will depend on your individual case, as well as your ability to adhere to wearing the aligners. Not wearing your aligners for at least 22 hours a day can cause your treatment to take longer.
Will I need a retainer after Invisalign® treatment?
Yes, a retainer will be required after undergoing active orthodontic treatment with Invisalign®. However, Invisalign® offers their Vivera retainer, which is just as comfortable and discreet as their clear aligners.
What is the primary difference between Invisalign and traditional braces?
Unlike metal braces with brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are clear, removable, and made of smooth plastic, offering a virtually invisible and more flexible treatment method.
Can I eat and drink with my Invisalign aligners in?
Removing your Invisalign aligners while eating or drinking anything other than water is recommended. This prevents potential damage or staining of the aligners and ensures their longevity.
Let’s Begin Your Invisalign Journey!
At 3D Dentistry in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Samoset, FL, your smile, dreams, and dental health stand at the forefront of our mission. If Invisalign resonates with you, or you have more questions about this transformative treatment, contact us. Dial (941) 253-2300 today, and let’s embark on the path to your reimagined smile together.