Invisalign® Clear Aligners
Invisalign® is a popular option for achieving a straight smile without the need for traditional
metal braces. It involves a series of clear aligners that are worn over your teeth. These
transparent aligners are removable and are replaced approximately every two weeks throughout the
course of your treatment.
The benefits of Invisalign® include:
- Removability: Invisalign® aligners can be easily removed before meals or
social engagements, allowing for convenient eating and cleaning.
- No Food Traps: Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign® aligners do not
have brackets or wires that can trap food, making oral hygiene and cleaning more
straightforward.
- Discreet Appearance: Invisalign® aligners are virtually invisible when
worn, allowing you to smile confidently without the appearance of traditional braces.
What Is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® utilizes a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. Each set
of clear aligners is worn for approximately two weeks before progressing to the next set.
Most patients wear 20 to 30 sets of aligners during their treatment, though the number may
vary depending on the specific case.
Invisalign® is effective for treating minor to moderate orthodontic issues. However, for
severe cases, alternative orthodontic treatments such as traditional braces may be
recommended. Your dentist or orthodontist will assess your specific case to determine the
most suitable treatment option.
Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces
While Invisalign® offers several advantages, it is essential to wear the aligners for a minimum
of 22 hours per day and follow your dentist's instructions to ensure effective treatment.
Frequent removal or failure to wear the aligners as recommended can impede progress, extend
treatment time, and increase costs. If you have difficulty adhering to these requirements,
traditional braces may be a more suitable choice.
Procedure Overview
As Invisalign® treatment progresses, each new set of aligners will have minor adjustments to
continue the teeth-straightening process. It is common for a new set to feel slightly different
initially, as your teeth need to adapt to the new aligner's shape. Invisalign® is a gradual
process, with each aligner focusing on shifting specific teeth.
Your dentist or orthodontist will monitor your progress every few weeks and provide new sets of
clear aligners accordingly. In some cases, attachments may be added to specific teeth to help
guide them into the desired position. These attachments consist of small dots of bonding resin
applied to teeth and hardened with a curing light. They enhance the contact with the aligners,
exerting additional force on teeth that may not shift as easily. The attachment process is
straightforward and does not require anesthesia.