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Invisalign® Q & A

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign uses clear plastic trays called aligners to custom-mold the patient’s mouth to move teeth into their proper positions over time gently.

The Invisalign system uses no wires or brackets, and the clear, medical-grade plastic design means the aligners are almost invisible while in place. You should wear your aligners for most waking hours, but you can remove them for flossing, brushing, and eating.

What happens during Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign treatment starts with impressions of the teeth, sometimes accompanied by photographs or measurements. The impressions and other information are sent to the lab where your Invisalign aligners are created.

At the lab, the impressions are scanned into a computer that uses computer-aided design software to create 3D models that show the movements the teeth need to make to become straight. Then the aligners are made using those models as guides.

During treatment, each aligner is worn for about two weeks. Then it’s “swapped” for the next aligner in the series. Patients visit the office about once every six weeks for a checkup. Most treatments can be completed in two years or less.

What are the benefits of Invisalign compared to traditional braces?

One of the most significant benefits for patients is the clear design of the Invisalign system, which means patients won’t feel self-conscious about their appearance during treatment. The aligners are also entirely smooth so they won’t irritate the cheeks or gums.

Since you can remove the aligners, brushing and flossing teeth is much easier, and there are no dietary restrictions. Additionally, because they’re custom designed for each patient, treatment can be completed in less time than traditional braces.

Can Invisalign be used to treat all types of alignment and crowding issues?

The skilled team can use Invisalign to treat many types of alignment issues in teens and adults, but it’s not the ideal solution for each patient.

During the initial office visit at Dental Blvd, the team carefully evaluates patients to determine if Invisalign is the best choice for their needs or if another option might be more suitable.

To learn more about Invisalign and to schedule a consultation, call Dental Blvd. Or request one online today, which is fast and easy.