Invisible Braces or Clear Aligners

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth – without the need for metal brackets or wires. Invisalign is used to close gaps between teeth, remove overcrowding of teeth, or to correct problems with bite. While many view Invisalign as a cosmetic dental procedure, correct spacing between teeth is important to maintain a clean, healthy mouth. When teeth are too tight, pateints have difficulty flossing between teeth. And, when teeth are too far apart, food will get stuck between teeth.

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Invisalign is ideal for adults who wish to undergo orthodontic treatment and maintain their active lifestyle.

What Can Patients Expect?

Invisalign treatment begins with a consultation. During the consultation, you and one of our dentists will consider your treatment options. If Invisalgin is an option, and you agree to treatment, our team will take photographs and radiographs of your teeth. We will also use their iTero scanner to take a digital impression of your teeth.

Our team will work with Invisalign to formulate your treatment. A computer simulation will be shown to you, so you will be able to see a finished product.

During your next series of visits you will be provided with clear aligners. The aligners fit snugly over your teeth, and each aligner is designed to slightly move your teeth. A set of aligners is typically worn for two weeks, though we may provide you with specific instructions on how long to wear each set. Invisalign treatment can take anywhere between six months to two years.

Aligners should be worn everyday for as long as possible – Invisalign recommends a 20 hour wear time for optimal results. The aligners are only removed for eating. After eating a patient should brush and floss before placing the aligners back into the mouth. Throughout your treatment you will return the office every two to four weeks to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned.

Once your treatment is complete, you will be provided a retainer. The retainer, which fits just like an aligner, should be worn every night to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position.

What are SureSmile® and Invisalign® Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are an effective alternative to traditional braces, because they use a system of clear, removable trays used to straighten teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit over your teeth and is designed to gradually move teeth into their proper position. Using clear aligners for orthodontic treatment is not for everyone. The best way to find out if clear aligners are the right option for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist.

How do clear aligners work?

Clear aligners are used as an alternative to traditional braces, and are designed to help guide teeth into proper position. Just like braces, clear aligners use gradual force to control tooth movement, but without any metal wires or brackets. The aligners are made with a strong plastic material that has been fabricated to fit your mouth. As treatment progresses you switch aligners. Each aligner is a little different, so your teeth move a little more with every change.
Aligners are worn for at least 20 hours each day, and you’ll receive a new aligner every one to two weeks. The length of your treatment depends on the severity of your case, and treatment can take anywhere from two months to three years.

Advantages of orthodontic treatment with clear aligners:

Clear aligners are a great alternative for patients who want a straighter smile but do not want to wear metal braces, or for patients who have had treatment in the past and want to make minor corrections to their smile. There are several advantages to orthodontic treatment with clear aligners.
Clear aligners are easier to keep clean, making it easier to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
Clear aligners are comfortable and less likely to irritate your gums and cheeks.
Clear aligners prevent wear on the teeth from tooth grinding.
Clear aligners are removable, so it’s easier for you to brush and floss after meals.
If you’re interested in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, schedule an appointment and talk to Dr. Pelts about whether this is the right treatment option for you. Scheduling a consultation is your first step toward achieving the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.

Are Clear Aligners Painful?

While there may be some soreness when you first start wearing your aligners, the entire treatment is essentially pain-free. Just like going to the gym for the first time in a while, you may feel sore initially. However, as you go more often, the soreness will fade away. Once you’ve worn your aligners consistently, you won’t feel any discomfort or soreness because your teeth have become used to the gradual shifting that is occurring.

How Should I Care for My Clear Aligners?

Caring for your aligners keeps them beautiful and effective! You can purchase a cleaning kit directly from the SureSmile website, or you can use a soft bristled toothbrush, clear hand soap, and lukewarm water. It’s important to never use hot water because it could permanently warp the plastic that your aligners are made with. We recommend that you only drink water while SureSmile is in your mouth because other beverages can stain your trays.

Do I Need to Wear a Retainer After SureSmile or Invisalign?

Yes, it’s important that you wear a retainer after your SureSmile or Invisalign treatment. We will recommend that you wear one full-time for the first month or so. After that, you can switch to nighttime use. It can take four to six months on average for your teeth to permanently adjust to their newly aligned positions. After spending the time and money on a straighter smile, the last step is to wear a retainer to ensure its permanence.