
Invisalign
While the idea of achieving a perfect smile may seem ideal, the process of putting metal brackets and wires in your mouth to achieve it can seem off-putting. To many adolescents and adults, getting traditional braces can feel foolish and embarrassing. Thankfully, you can now choose clear aligners; transparent, plastic alternatives to metal braces. At Brandywine Smile Center, we help patients get Invisalign treatment in Glen Mills, PA and the surrounding areas!
What Are Invisalign Clear Braces?
A popular alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign braces are removable clear aligners that gradually adjust your teeth. This orthodontic adjustment method is particularly popular with adults and teenagers who don’t want people to see metal brackets every time they talk and smile.
Invisalign can be used to correct a variety of orthodontic problems, including:
- Overcrowded teeth
- Overbites
- Crossbites
- Gapped teeth
- Simple bite irregularities
- Relapses after the removal of traditional braces
How Does Invisalign Work?
If our dentists find that you are a good candidate for Invisalign, we will take a set of X-rays and teeth impressions, which will be used to create a set of clear aligner trays that are custom fit to your teeth. The number of aligners in each set will depend on the extent of any orthodontic issues you have, but typically a set of 20 to 30 aligners are needed for both the upper and lower teeth. Each set of clear aligners should be worn for about two weeks. They can be removed whenever eating, brushing, or flossing, otherwise they should be worn at all times to ensure treatment success.
Your dentist will want to check-in every four to six weeks to ensure that the clear braces are working and to supply you with new aligners as needed.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
The duration of the treatment depends on your individual case, however, most adult teeth are corrected in less than a year. Teenagers teeth, though, typically require a bit more time to adjust, usually 12 to 16 months. Keep in mind, the more consistent you are in following the treatment plan, the more efficient the treatment tends to be. Ideally, you’ll want to wear your clear aligners 20-22 hours each day, meaning you should only remove them for eating, brushing and flossing.
Benefits of Invisalign
Aesthetics
These clear aligners fit snugly over your teeth and can barely be seen by others. While they have the same end result as metal braces, they are far less obvious, especially when compared to the traditional metal wire, bracket and brace appliances.
Comfort
Traditional metal braces are known to cause some irritation in the gums and cheeks. Because Invisalign braces are smooth and custom-fitted to your teeth, they cause very little irritation to your gums or the inside of your mouth.
Convenience
Traditional braces require constant visits to the orthodontist to make adjustments. With Invisalign, appointments typically are only required every four to six weeks to make sure that your teeth are properly adjusting and to get a new set of clear aligners.
Improved Oral Hygiene
Good dental hygiene and preventive care are always important, but it’s even more so when you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. Invisalign aligners are removable so it is easy to regularly brush and floss and maintain a proper oral health routine. Plus, since they are removed before eating, less food gets stuck between teeth, which in turn helps prevent potential dental issues like tooth decay.
Schedule An Invisalign Consultation
If you think you may be a good fit for Invisalign braces, contact us to schedule an appointment.