Getting perfectly aligned teeth without the hassle of having to deal with traditional braces is very much possible now. Here at Star Orthodontics, we've got you covered with the far better alternative, which is the Invisalign treatment. This process consists of wearing invisible aligners that gradually work their magic in straightening out your teeth. They can also be taken out and placed back easily at your will. Apart from giving you a perfect smile, this innovation corrects misaligned bite, jaw position, and improves your dental hygiene, among many other things.
Many people, especially teens, find braces embarrassing, uncomfortable, and frustrating. They are limited on what they can eat, plus food can get stuck in them. Some people find themselves not smiling as much because they don't want their braces to be seen. However, Invisalign provides an alternative. Many of our patients make use of Invisalign clear aligners to move their teeth into the proper position. Even adults can make use of this method to align their teeth.
How Does Invisalign Treatment Work?
First, the patient is thoroughly examined by our dental practitioner for misaligned teeth, and if they require treatment. After identifying any issues, molds of your teeth are taken using impression material that is placed over your teeth. Our professionals then analyze the teeth impressions, and a 3D digital model of the current state of your teeth is constructed and presented to you on a monitor. From here, a unique treatment plan is devised. The software helps you visualize how your teeth will look after the treatment when they are at the desired position. Once you approve the plan, sets of invisible aligners are tailor-made for you. The aligners are custom-designed for you according to your treatment plan. Each set is slightly different from the previous one, gradually moving towards perfectly aligning your teeth. They have to be changed every two weeks as you progress in your plan. The aligners have to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day to work. Cleaning the aligners is also no hassle, as brushing them with a simple toothbrush will do the trick.
A Comparison of Braces and Invisalign
Braces are, as we all know, metal brackets on your teeth, while Invisalign is clear custom made aligners made out of medical-grade plastic. Both serve the same purpose, which is to straighten out your teeth ultimately, but the journey is quite different. Invisalign trays can be removed anytime, whereas braces are permanently attached for a period of time. Braces also require maintenance, for example, brushing right after eating and applying floss. Metal wires are also not the most comfortable as patients have confessed to them being in discomfort every time their orthodontist tightens the braces, whereas clear aligners also may cause initial discomfort but far less than traditional braces. Invisalign sets are extremely clear and unnoticeable. This can play a huge part in boosting confidence, whereas braces are obvious and may not be ideal for someone conscious about people noticing them.
Different Types of Braces
In addition to metal braces and clear aligners, there are a few different types of braces available.
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces, only the brackets and wires are clear, making them less noticeable. They are also a bit larger and more square-shaped. The downside to these types of braces is that they are a bit less durable and take longer to align the teeth.
Lingual braces are like traditional metal braces, only they are attached to the backside of the teeth rather than the front. This makes them less visible to others. Treatment time for lingual braces is about the same as metal braces. Speaking with lingual braces can be a little difficult at first, until you get used to them.
What Are the Advantages of Invisalign Clear Aligners?
We think there are lots of reasons you might want to choose to wear Invisalign clear aligners. We already told you they are less noticeable than traditional braces. Invisalign aligners also mean that unlike traditional braces, you can eat or drink whatever you want. You can eat hard, crunchy foods, such as fruits and vegetables. You can also eat soft, sticky foods such as taffy. You can eat whatever you want without damaging your braces, which is great for adults who don't have time to come back to us every time they damage a wire or a bracket.
Speaking of wires and brackets, Invisalign is made without any wires or brackets at all. Many adults find that metal wires and brackets cause irritation and damage to their cheeks and gums. They can even cause cuts, scrapes, and sores, which can be painful. Invisalign's smooth edges won't irritate your teeth and gums.
People who wear Invisalign have discovered that their treatment time is much shorter than adults who wear traditional braces. On average, Invisalign aligners have a six month shorter treatment time than traditional braces. Invisalign aligners are also cheaper than traditional braces, which means you will save money on your treatment over time.
Because the plastic is clear, there is no real worry about feeling embarrassed or self-conscious while wearing the aligners. In fact, many people likely will not even realize that you have an Invisalign aligner in your mouth unless they look closely. These aligners are also typically more comfortable than braces are.
Finally, while braces often need a number of adjustments, aligners do not. You will not need to come in as often for checkups.
Why Clear Aligners?
Invisalign is an excellent solution for adults and teens looking to restore their beautiful smiles without interrupting their life. The cost of Invisalign clear aligners is usually quite similar to the cost of braces, but this depends upon the complexity of your case. For several patients, it requires a shorter period to overcome misaligned teeth, but this varies from patient to patient.
Our team at Star Orthodontics is always available to cater to your specific needs to the best of our abilities. Feel free to call us at 361-371-8555 for any Invisalign frequently asked questions (FAQs) or inquiries that have not been addressed here. We are always at your service.
