Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment that focuses on the straightening of teeth without the need for conventional braces. Launched in 1999 by Align Technology, Invisalign consists of clear aligners made from SmartTrack material, which are designed to be nearly invisible, removable and convenient for patients. This innovation has changed the world of orthodontics and has become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional metal braces.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign works through a series of custom-made clear aligner trays that are switched out every one to two weeks. Each tray is engineered to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal position, which is determined by your orthodontist at the beginning of your treatment plan. The SmartTrack material used in Invisalign aligners are designed to apply controlled force on certain teeth during each stage of treatment, facilitating this gradual process.

The length of treatment with Invisalign varies depending on individual needs and complexity, with some treatments taking as little as six months and others lasting up to two years or more.

For more details, you can check out this profile: https://www.invisalign.ch/doctor-profile/dr–barbara-scheiner/975114. Regardless of duration, consistent wear — approximately 20-22 hours per day — is crucial in obtaining optimal results.

Candidacy for Invisalign Treatment

While many individuals benefit from Invisalign treatment, not everyone is a suitable candidate. It is essential for potential patients to consult with an experienced orthodontist who can assess whether Invisalign can effectively address their specific dental concerns.

Some factors that influence candidacy include:

• Age: Although there is no upper age limit for Invisalign treatment, it is typically most effective for older teenagers and adults whose jaws have fully developed.
• Dental Concerns: Invisalign can correct a variety of dental issues, including mild to moderate crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites and crossbites. However, severe cases or those requiring significant tooth or jaw movement may be better suited for traditional braces.
• Compliance: As the success of Invisalign treatment depends on consistent wear of the aligners for 20-22 hours per day, disciplined and motivated patients are more likely to achieve positive results.

Benefits of Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign offers numerous advantages as compared to traditional braces:

Appearance

One of the primary draws for many patients is the near invisibility of Invisalign aligners. Made from clear SmartTrack material that fits snugly around your teeth, these aligners are discreet and less noticeable than metal wires and brackets. This feature makes Invisalign an attractive option for individuals who are self-conscious about their appearance during orthodontic treatment.

Comfort

In addition to being virtually invisible, Invisalign aligners boast improved comfort in comparison to traditional braces. The smooth plastic edges do not irritate the cheeks or gums, and there are no metal components that may cause discomfort or poking sensations. Furthermore, patients do not need to endure regular tightening appointments as with braces.

Oral Hygiene

Maintaining oral hygiene is considerably easier with removable Invisalign aligners. Patients can simply take out their trays when brushing and flossing their teeth, facilitating an effective oral care routine without navigating through complex wires and brackets present in traditional braces. Additionally, keeping the aligner trays clean is a relatively straightforward process – they can be gently brushed with toothpaste and rinsed with cold water or cleaned using special Invisalign cleaning products.

Fewer Dietary Restrictions

Another advantage of removable trays is the freedom to eat and drink without limitations. Traditional braces come with a long list of restricted foods, such as sticky and hard items, which could damage brackets or wires. Invisalign wearers simply need to remove their aligners during meals and snacks, enabling them to enjoy a regular diet without added worries.

Steps in the Invisalign Treatment Process

Orthodontic Consultation

The first step towards obtaining Invisalign treatment is scheduling a consultation with an experienced orthodontist who is proficient in handling Invisalign cases. During this appointment, the orthodontist will examine your teeth and discuss your specific concerns to determine if Invisalign is an appropriate option for you.

Digital Impression and Customized Treatment Plan

If considered an eligible candidate for Invisalign, your orthodontist will create a digital impression of your teeth using advanced 3D imaging technology. This procedure involves taking hundreds of photographs of your teeth from various angles, resulting in a precise computer-generated model that forms the blueprint for your treatment plan.

Utilizing this model, your orthodontist will devise a personalized progression plan that maps out each stage of tooth movement throughout treatment. Once approved by you and your orthodontist, this information is sent to Align Technology where custom aligner trays are fabricated exclusively for you.

Treatment and Checkups

Your clear aligners will be given to you as sets; each set typically contains multiple pairs designated for one or two-week wear durations (depending on your specific plan). It is essential to consistently wear these aligners for 20-22 hours per day in order to maintain steady progress.

During treatment, you will periodically visit your orthodontist for follow-up checkups to ensure the progression is on track. Throughout these appointments, adjustments in the plan can be made and any concerns or questions addressed.

Post-Treatment: Retainers

Upon completion of Invisalign treatment, patients transition to wearing retainers at night in order to preserve their newly straightened teeth. There are various types of retainers available, including clear plastic models similar in appearance to Invisalign aligners. Your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable retainer for you and provide instructions on how often and for how long they should be worn.

Conclusion

Invisalign has revolutionized the field of orthodontics, providing a discreet, comfortable and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces. Whether you are a teenager seeking an inconspicuous option for teeth straightening, or an adult looking to improve your smile without the hassle of braces, consult with an experienced orthodontist to determine if Invisalign is the right choice for you.