07 Nov Is Invisalign Effective?
If you find yourself shying away from the camera or only giving closed-mouth smiles, you might be thinking about orthodontics. If the bulkiness of metal braces makes you worried, then you would not be alone. Invisalign has been changing orthodontics for the last decade, giving millions the option of straightening their teeth or closing gaps without the flash of metal when they smile.
Is Invisalign As Effective As Braces?
Like metal braces, the goal with Invisalign is to use pressure to slowly move your teeth into the proper positions. Traditional braces use small metal pieces cemented to your teeth and thin flexible wires to move them. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners called trays, and sometimes tiny, tooth-colored anchors that attach the trays to your teeth.
Invisalign is most popular with adults looking to change their smile without having everyone notice their braces. Most people see changes in their teeth in 3 to 18 months, making it a faster alternative to regular orthodonture. The effects are long lasting, but just like braces, Invisalign patients will need to wear a retainer at night so their teeth keep their new alignment.
How Effective Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is most effective for mild to moderate orthodontic needs. Its effectiveness also depends on the amount of time spent wearing the Invisalign trays, as well as proper handling and cleaning. People with complex cases might find that metal braces are their only option, however, there are a myriad of dental issues that Invisalign can correct.
Common Dental Issues That Invisalign Can Fix
- Overbites—Upper teeth overlap the lower teeth
- Underbites—Lower teeth overlap the upper teeth
- Crossbites—Misaligned jaw that does not allow for proper placement of the teeth
- Open bite—Misaligned bite that does not allow for the teeth to come together
- Crowded teeth—Teeth are pushed together or at odd angles because of a lack of space in the jaw
- Gap teeth—Gaps are present between the teeth
How Does Invisalign Work?
The first step in the Invisalign process is a consultation with your dentist, who will let you know if Invisalign will be effective for your case. Next, your dentist will calculate how long your treatment will take and how many different sets of aligners you will need.
Next, they will take a mold and 3-D pictures of your teeth. Working from the pictures and molds, the lab will make clear aligners according to your dentist’s exact specifications.
During your treatment, you will change out the aligners every two weeks, until your teeth reach their perfect position. Each new aligner is slightly different, applying pressure exactly where needed to shift your teeth.
Throughout the course of your treatment, you’ll have several exams so that your dentist can make adjustments or add anchors to your teeth if needed.
Invisalign Treatment in Prescott, Arizona
From overbites to gap teeth, let the professionals at Hick’s Dental Group see if you are a good fit for Invisalign. Getting teeth into their proper place requires care and expertise. By choosing the doctors at our practice you are making the right choice for your smile’s future. Take the first step today—contact us today to book an Invisalign consultation.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/6/22).