Things You Should Know about Invisalign Aligners

Posted by turnerdentalcare on February 27th, 2020

For years, teens endured the installation of metal braces to straighten their teeth as a rite of passage to a future of straighter smiles. Fortunately, those who need alignment of their teeth can now get the same outcome through Invisalign invisible aligners, a revolutionary system that uses invisible plastic molds to quickly realign the teeth and produce a dramatically improved smile. For many, Invisalign treatment in Aliso Viejo, CA, has opened doors to new confidence and improved oral health.

For those who have never heard of Invisalign, there can be a little bit of a learning curve. Because of the way Invisalign works, results can come more quickly than when traditional metal braces are used. There are also fewer maintenance issues involved, and the usage of the aligners is less invasive than metal braces. Keep reading to learn what you should know about Invisalign invisible aligners.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign treatment uses multiple sets of trays made from molds of your current teeth and bite. Each tray is made to provide slight adjustments to your teeth's alignment over time so that your teeth become a little straighter than they were when the previous tray was used. The movement amounts to about a quarter of a millimeter per tray, but even with that small incremental adjustment, results can come quickly compared to traditional braces.   

What Should I Expect During Treatment?

The first step is to get the Invisalign Smile Assessment to determine if Invisalign is a viable option. You visit an Invisalign provider in your area to get a consultation. Providers receive special training that allows them to determine if Invisalign will provide the desired result. They'll perform a 3-D scan that's used to map out your treatment plan and create your first set of custom aligners. The aligners are made of thermoplastic and are switched out every few weeks to provide the necessary amendments to your tooth alignment. Only a few teeth are moved at each stage of the treatment process, and all that’s required is that you wear the aligners for at least 22 hours each day, including during sleep.

How Long Does It Take?

The timeline for treatment is around 12 months for the average adult patient. For younger clients, the timeline can vary according to age and the degree of alignment that's desired. The timeline is still shorter than the time frame for teeth straightening using traditional metal braces.

What Happens after Invisalign?

Once your smile is properly aligned, you won’t need to wear your Invisalign invisible aligners any longer. However, you may elect to wear retainers as recommended by your doctor to prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original positions. The Invisalign retainers are also clear and unobtrusive while keeping your newly minted smile in check.

If you’re considering teeth straightening options, give some thought to whether Invisalign treatment in Aliso Viejo, CA, is right for you. These invisible, noninvasive aligners can provide you with a straighter smile and improved confidence in no time.