Most people envision orthodontic care as a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. This type of framework is a suitable choice for many people. Teens and adults who would prefer to avoid the common inconveniences of conventional braces have a new choice: Invisalign® clear aligners. They are like having clear braces!

The Invisalign system offers a comfortable, discreet treatment for misalignment. Made of durable, clear polyurethane plastic, aligners are barely noticeable when you smile, laugh, or speak. They are not noticeable when you eat. This is because Invisalign aligners are completely removable. No metal structures are bonded to your teeth, which means virtually no disadvantages to treatment.

The only disadvantage could stem from the fact that aligners can be removed, but shouldn’t be for any longer than necessary. The intent of removal is to facilitate comfortable eating and unobstructed oral hygiene. Aligners can also be removed for the occasional special event. The more compliant you are with prescribed use, however, the more effective your treatment will be.

Advantages of the Invisalign system include:

• Barely-there look. Your oral health is your concern, and your quest for a straighter smile does not have to be obvious with metal braces. With Invisalign, your self-image remains intact and is completely in your control.
• Oral health. Because aligners are removable, treatment does not increase the risk of tooth decay or other issues. Teeth can be brushed and flossed without braces getting in the way, allowing you to enjoy optimal oral health throughout your treatment process.
• Comfort. The smoothness and flexibility of Invisalign aligners lends to a gentler, more comfortable smile transformation.
• Dining convenience. With braces that are bonded to teeth, patients must carefully watch what they eat. Invisalign aligners are removed for meals, so you can continue eating all the foods you love.
• Protection from teeth grinding. Most people clench or grind to some degree while they sleep; some do it in excess. This can cause undue wear on teeth. Aligners, worn at night, can help to alleviate the stress that is caused when clenching or grinding occurs.

Over the past several years since Invisalign was first developed, a number of improvements have been made to this system. Today, Invisalign is used to treat a number of bite issues that once may have been more challenging. Some patients will benefit the most from conventional orthodontic treatment. Find out if Invisalign is suited to your smile needs in a consultation with our friendly team.

How the Invisalign system straightens teeth

The principles of Invisalign are the same that apply to braces. Teeth are gradually moved by the controlled application of force. The difference is that Invisalign aligners are made of flexible, clear plastic, not metal.

Invisalign treatment involves planning via specialized computer software. This software uses a model of your teeth and takes them on a virtual journey from their current positions to their ideal alignment. Before you wear your first aligner, you will get to see your smile’s transformation on our computer screen.

Like traditional orthodontic treatment, Invisalign straightens teeth in stages. The stages of Invisalign include a series of aligners. Each aligner is designed in a shape that will further the progress of movement. Aligners are worn 20 hours a day or more, one on the top arch and one on the bottom. Each set is worn for two weeks, after which a new set will be inserted. Each new set of aligners will feel slightly tight and will apply gentle force where needed to achieve the desired movement. When you reach the end of your series of aligners, you will see a much healthier, much more attractive smile.

Invisalign for teens

One of the improvements that has been made to the Invisalign system is the design of a model specifically for teens. This system features what are called “eruption tabs,” small areas in which space is left open for molars that are still growing in. Teens also benefit from “compliance indicators” that enable teens, their parents, and Dr. Hepler to ensure proper wear. Compliance indicators fade as aligners are worn and they facilitate responsible use that leads to successful alignment and a beautiful smile.

Oral hygiene during treatment

As mentioned, the removable aspect of Invisalign is one of the biggest advantages of this care. You have the ability to take the best possible care of your teeth and gums throughout your orthodontic treatment so please do not take oral hygiene lightly! If food debris is not sufficiently removed after meals and snacks, it becomes trapped between aligners and teeth. Failing to properly brush and floss as recommended will put you at risk for cavities and gum disease. In addition to brushing and flossing teeth, it is important to care for aligners through gentle brushing and rinsing under lukewarm water.

Post-treatment maintenance

Invisalign is different from braces in the way that teeth are straightened. What remains important is your commitment to follow-up. The periodontal ligament will pull against newly straightened teeth if retainers are not worn as directed after the completion of direct orthodontic treatment. Retainers are the best way to protect the alignment of your smile and the investment you have made into it.

The Atlanta Center for Dental Health offers friendly, professional teeth-straightening treatment to teens and adults from Alpharetta and surrounding areas including Cumming, Johns Creek, and Roswell. Call today to schedule your visit.