There are many ways to straighten your teeth in this day and age. So why do so many patients and orthodontists go for Invisalign? Dr. Wayne Sankey of Flower Mound Orthodontics, an orthodontist in Flower Mound, TX, discusses Invisalign and its many benefits.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is used as a substitute for traditional braces for mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. Instead of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to slowly move your teeth into position. The plastic used is thin enough to be comfortable but is also durable enough to withstand regular wear and tear.
The Benefits of Invisalign
One of the main benefits of Invisalign is that they’re much more subtle than traditional braces. This is particularly important for adults that are looking for a discreet way to get a straighter smile. Because the aligners are fitted to snugly hug your teeth and are clear, it can be hard to tell they’re even there unless someone is specifically looking for them.
Treatment with Invisalign is often shorter than treatment with metal braces. The average time for Invisalign treatment is around 6-18 months. Because you change out your Invisalign aligners yourself, you don’t have to make as many visits to our office as you would with braces. Braces require the wires to be tightened once a month.
While you have to wear your aligners for around 22 hours a day, they are removable. When you have braces, there are brackets and other new hardware for plaque and tartar to build up. You have to learn how to brush and floss around these areas properly. With Invisalign, you can follow your normal oral healthcare routine, and then clean the aligners separately.
This is true for your eating habits as well. Braces require you to stop eating certain foods that can get stuck in the new hardware or break the wires. With the Invisalign process, you don’t have to remove anything from your diet. You can take out the clear aligners every time that you have a meal.
Lastly, the aligners go over the teeth smoothly. The plastic they’re made out of is designed to not harm the soft tissues of your mouth. Wax often has to be used on the brackets and wires of braces to prevent them from digging into the soft tissue inside your lips and cheeks.
The Invisalign Process
To start, Dr. Sankey will take impressions, x-rays, and images of your teeth to start planning your treatment. He uses his skill to tailor each individual Invisalign case, going tooth by tooth to make sure it’ll fit your smile perfectly. You’ll be able to learn how long your treatment will last and see a projected image of the final results to make sure you’re satisfied.
The aligners are custom-made to fit your smile. You’ll wear them for around 20-22 hours per day to make sure you’re getting the most from your treatment. Every 1-2 weeks you’ll change your aligners. Each set is designed to slowly shift your teeth further.
Invisalign at Your Flower Mound, Texas Orthodontist
Does Invisalign sound like the right choice to straighten your crooked smile? Call us or schedule an appointment online.