What is Invisalign?
Braces are a popular treatment for anyone who has crooked or crowded teeth, over/underbites, and flawed jaw position. However braces are incredibly obvious and for teenagers or adults who would rather have an inconspicuous, but still functional treatment, invisalign is perfect for them.
Invisalign may not work for everyone, the dentist and orthodontist will be able to tell the patient which course of action is best suited for him/her/them. Invisalign is a clear, removable plastic aligner. Braces are brackets literally cemented to teeth. A wire is connected to each bracket and then tightened to get the teeth in the right position. Unlike braces, Invisalign is easily detached.
Dr. Heather Darcey and her team of dental professionals can help! Call 281-317-6881 or make Schedule an Appointment online.
Each treatment plan is customized to the patient.
Impressions of the patient’s teeth will be taken, then a treatment plan will be created especially for the patient. A 3-D image will be created in order to plan the different stages of teeth positioning. Not all of the patient’s teeth will be repositioned at once. Only a few at a time will be worked on. The invisalign treatment timeline changes from patient to patient but for adults, it is normally a full year whereas for teenagers it takes as long as traditional braces.
Invisalign is made out of BPA-free plastic and unlike metal braces, Invisalign does not cause irritation and cuts inside the patient’s cheeks. Aligners must be worn every day. One of the best features of Invisalign though is that unlike metal braces, they are removable. Patients can take them out when eating, brushing and flossing their teeth. Sports players can take them out before a game in order to put in a mouth guard. In order to get the best use out of the aligners though, they need to be worn at least 20 to 22 hours a day.
If you have any questions call Dr. Heather Darcey at Space Age Smiles 281-317-6881
A new set of aligners will be given to the patient every two weeks so the straightening process can continue without issue. The patient’s teeth will get straighter at every part of the process giving them a sense of satisfaction. The patient will be able to know exactly what to expect at every stage of the treatment process due to the treatment plan that was prepared in the beginning.
Patients will need to physically go to the doctor every six weeks for a checkup to make sure the treatment is proceeding as planned.
If any alterations are needed, the doctor will mention it at one of the meetings. A retainer may be needed at the end of the treatment to make sure that the patient’s teeth do not move. The retainers are created with the same technology as the aligners. Regular teeth cleaning is important, so the patient needs to make sure to go to the dentist every six months. Aligners can be removed during meals so food will not be able to get stuck in them like regular metal braces but oral health should still be a top priority while wearing the aligners as well as afterward.
If you think Invisalign is right for you or if you have any questions call Dr. Heather Darcey at Space Age Smiles, 281-317-6881 or go online to make an appointment.