Invisalign
Invisalign braces
Clear orthodontic aligners, such as Invisalign®, have become increasingly popular over the years as a more discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign uses clear tray aligners to straighten teeth, offering a nearly invisible way to achieve a straighter smile. If you are interested in Invisalign treatment, Cedar Grove, NJ in Cedar Grove, NJ and the surrounding area offers this option. Contact us at (973) 857-0567 to schedule an appointment and see if Invisalign is the right choice for you.
Consider alternative braces
Invisalign utilizes clear tray aligners made of strong plastic to straighten teeth, replacing traditional metal wires and brackets. Patients receive a new aligner every one or two weeks to gradually shift their teeth into the correct position. This concept of using removable aligners to adjust teeth dates back to the 1940s, with advancements made over the years leading to the development of Invisalign's mass-market system in 1999.
“Invisalign uses clear tray aligners instead of metal wires and brackets to straighten teeth.”
Three Steps to Invisalign
To get started with the Invisalign process, simply schedule a consultation with our dentist. During this initial appointment, our team will evaluate your oral health and take impressions of your mouth. These impressions will then be sent to Invisalign to create personalized aligners that will fit your mouth perfectly.
Once your aligners are ready, our staff will ensure they fit correctly, answer any questions you may have, and go over the treatment plan with you. It is crucial to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day for the best results. Regular checkups at Cedar Grove Dental Group will allow us to track your progress and determine when new aligners are needed.
Once you have achieved your desired results, you may need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile and prevent teeth from shifting back. Our dentist will provide you with specific instructions on how often to wear the retainer.
“The first step to getting Invisalign is by scheduling a consultation with our dentist.”
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Invisalign
Invisalign has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the main benefits is that they are nearly invisible, allowing both teenagers and adults to avoid the discomfort and self-consciousness associated with traditional metal braces. Patients also appreciate the ability to remove Invisalign aligners for eating, brushing, flossing, or social situations.
However, because they are removable, there is a higher risk of them being lost or broken. Patients must also be cautious about what they drink while wearing their aligners. It is recommended to only drink water, as other liquids can seep into the plastic and cause staining or even tooth decay if not removed promptly.
“Thanks to the fact that they are next-to-invisible, both teens and adults can avoid the discomfort and self-consciousness that comes with traditional metal braces.”
How to Properly Maintain Invisalign Aligners
Properly using and maintaining Invisalign aligners is crucial for achieving successful orthodontic results. To ensure effectiveness, it is important to wear the aligners for the recommended hours each day and minimize the frequency of removal to avoid exceeding the allowable time without them.
How to clean your aligners
It is important for patients to rinse their aligners when they take them out to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup, which can lead to bad breath and a sticky feeling on the teeth. Use a clear and unscented antibacterial soap to clean the aligners, avoiding toothpaste with whitening agents that can damage the plastic. When not wearing Invisalign aligners, store them in a case to protect them from germs that can be transferred to the mouth if left out in the open.
Remember to keep your mouth clean and healthy
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, especially when using Invisalign instead of traditional braces. Unlike metal brackets that can trap food and plaque, Invisalign aligners can be easily removed for thorough brushing and flossing. Remember to brush and floss after meals before putting the aligners back in to prevent food particles from causing bacteria growth and bad breath.
“It is essential to use and care for Invisalign aligners appropriately to have a good orthodontic outcome.”
Treatment Duration
It is important to note that only a dentist can accurately estimate the duration of Invisalign treatment. Factors such as the severity of the condition, patient compliance with the treatment plan, and age all play a role in determining the length of treatment. On average, patients can expect to see results in less than two years, with teenagers typically experiencing slightly shorter treatment times compared to adults.
To ensure that treatment stays on track, it is crucial for patients to follow all recommended guidelines. This includes switching trays on schedule and communicating any concerns with our staff. Failure to wear the aligners for the prescribed amount of time may result in teeth shifting back to their original positions.
