Clear aligners are molded to fit patients’ mouths. After a consultation, dentists take digital impressions and create a series of precision trays.
These trays should be removed before eating and drinking to avoid food debris and bacteria from building up, which can cause odors. They also need to be cleaned frequently to avoid discolouring.
It’s Clear
The clear plastic aligners are made with BPA-free plastic and are relatively translucent. They are nearly impossible to see when worn, and can be a welcome change from the metal wires and brackets that plagued orthodontic treatment in the past.
A custom Invisalign treatment plan is created based on 3D images and impressions taken with the iTero Element scanner, which allows the doctor to pinpoint the exact placement of teeth. A series of clear aligners are crafted to fit over the teeth, shifting them slowly and gently until the desired result is achieved.
Unlike standard braces, the aligners are completely removable. Patients are advised to wear the aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, but they can easily be removed for eating and drinking. The aligners should also be cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria buildup and stains, especially after eating. A cleaning tool is available to make the process of removing and cleaning the trays easier.
A removable aligner also makes brushing and flossing much more convenient. It’s possible to keep the mouth clean without worrying about having to work around or remove wires and brackets, and many people find that this leads to better oral hygiene overall. Most (PPO) dental insurance companies cover Invisalign, and some even offer it as a benefit. This can significantly reduce the cost of a patient’s Invisalign treatment.
It’s Comfortable
Invisalign is a comfortable treatment option for straightening your teeth. It’s more comfortable than traditional braces that have wires and metal brackets. With traditional braces, food particles can get stuck on and in the brackets or wires which provides a breeding ground for bacteria that could lead to gum disease and cavities. With Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about this because the trays are removable and can be taken out before meals and snacks.
Additionally, the trays are soft and won’t scrape against your tongue or cheek like the sharp edges of hard, rigid traditional braces can. The discomfort associated with wearing Invisalign is usually short-lived and goes away after a few days or after each tray change. Some Invisalign wearers experience enhanced tooth sensitivity, but this can be mitigated with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and by limiting how often they consume foods that are particularly sticky or crunchy.
Invisalign is also less costly than traditional braces and is typically covered by insurance or a healthcare financing program like CareCredit. You’ll also spend fewer trips to the orthodontist because you can simply swap out your old aligners for your new ones at home. This can save you time that you would have spent at work or school waiting for your orthodontist to tighten and adjust the braces.
It’s More Attractive
During treatment, most patients will get a new set of clear aligners every one to two weeks. These trays are custom-fitted to your mouth via X-rays and scans. They are made of BPA free plastic and are transparent, making them less noticeable than braces.
While a lot of people choose to get Invisalign for cosmetic reasons, it’s important not to overlook the fact that straight teeth can improve your health. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean, and they can help you avoid a number of dental problems down the road, including gum disease and bone loss.
Invisalign also offers a faster solution than traditional braces because of the way it applies forces to the teeth. Using a special scanner, the orthodontist can see the full tooth structure and determine the best way to move your teeth into position. This technology eliminates the need to make goopy molds of your teeth, which can cause pain and discomfort.
Lastly, Invisalign is often less expensive than traditional braces. Plus, many PPO dental insurance plans cover Invisalign, assuming the patient’s dentist has negotiated for it in their plan. And because Invisalign is easy to remove, patients are able to eat and drink their favorite foods without worrying about food stuck in their braces. And because Invisalign is easier to use, there’s a greater chance that the patient will actually wear it as needed.
It’s Faster
Despite the advantages of Invisalign, some people worry that it takes longer to straighten teeth than metal braces. However, the length of treatment depends on how well patients wear their aligners. The more they wear them, the faster and more effective they will be.
It’s important that Invisalign patients are disciplined enough to place their aligners back in their mouth after every meal or snack and brushing. If they don’t, their treatment will take longer than it should.
Invisalign is also more efficient than traditional braces because there are no wires and brackets to break or get snagged on objects. Additionally, Invisalign eliminates the need for regular office visits. Patients should visit their dentists only every six weeks to get new trays.
Another factor that makes Invisalign more effective than traditional braces is the aligner’s SmartTrack material. Compared to the previous plastic aligner, SmartTrack uses a more advanced technology that creates a more precise and consistent force on the teeth. This allows the teeth to move more quickly and comfortably.
If you are interested in achieving a straighter smile with Invisalign, contact us today to schedule your consultation. Our Irving and Allen dentists can determine if this type of treatment is best for you. Our team will work with you to achieve the beautiful smile you desire!