What Exactly Is Invisalign And How Does It Work?

Invisalign

If you are thinking about straightening your teeth without the use of traditional metal braces, then surely, you must have come across Invisalign. The cutting-edge treatment has been increasingly popular over the last several years because it can provide a more subtle and comfortable alternative to braces. 

But both of these coordinate to mold your teeth into the correct position. In this blog post, we take a deep dive into the details of some of the most important aspects of modern orthodontic solutions.

Clear, custom-made aligners move your teeth into the proper position due to the Invisalign treatment. Invisalign is a popular choice for older teenagers and adults because the clear aligners are far less visible than traditional braces, which consist of metal brackets and wires.

This post will break down what Invisalign is, how it works, the positives, and WHY or HOW it differs from traditional braces. Learn what to expect during the consultation process, cost, timeline & more with an in-depth look into Invisalign.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is an advanced technology that fixes your teeth through the use of clear plastic aligners. These aligners are unique to you as they are made from digital impressions or impressions of your teeth. With time, the appliance moves your teeth carefully into improved locations.

The aligners need to be worn 20–22 hours a day, and they are only removed before eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing. About Every Two Weeks, you will move onto the next set of Invisalign aligners, which help your teeth move further into their new positions. The number of aligners you get is dictated by the degree of rotation your teeth need.

The Invisalign Treatment Process

The first step in commencing your Invisalign treatment is to have a consultation with your orthodontist or general dentist. During this consultation, they will evaluate your teeth and go over your expectations for the treatment. Additionally, they will plan your treatment with 3D imaging technology and show you a digital model of before and after to illustrate how your teeth will move.

With the plan in place, the aligners are fabricated, and you will begin to wear them. Generally, you will wear the entire set of aligners for two weeks and then proceed to your new set. This slow move is what allows your teeth to shift safely and effectively into their new positions.

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces 

Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are made using smooth, comfortable plastics, and they may not cause harm to your mouth during treatment. In other words, you will have to visit the orthodontist less than every two weeks for tightening sessions.

So, Which One Is the Best?

Ultimately, the choice between Invisalign vs braces will depend on your preferences and specific circumstances. With traditional braces, standalone metal brackets and wires are used to move the teeth; they can be visible and occasionally uncomfortable. Although effective braces can be, the invisible Invisaligns are much more demanding due to their discreet nature.

Because Invisalign aligners are clear, they are nearly invisible and nothing like metal braces that attract notice. They can also be taken out at meal time, so that you can eat anything you want and keep your teeth clean with regular brushing and flossing. Braces may be needed for more difficult dental issues that may require very specific or quicker modifications.

What are the Benefits of Invisalign? 

Invisalign offers numerous advantages, which make it an attractive option for those who want to correct their crooked teeth. The following are some of the key benefits:

  • Inconspicuous Treatment: Aligners are made of a transparent plastic material, so you can keep smiling, and others won’t know you’re even in treatment.
  • Comfort Level: Since aligners are made of smooth plastic, you will not experience the metal brackets rubbing against your mouth and causing soreness or irritation.
  • Replaceable: You can replace your aligners for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, which helps you to keep up good oral habits while in treatment. 
  • Less Frequent: fewer dental appointments to the orthodontist, regular adjustments, and added time.
  • Eat What You Want: With traditional braces, you have to be careful about eating foods like popcorn or sticky candy.

Invisalign for Adults

Invisalign isn’t just for teens. For adults, Invisalign is a more common solution as more and more adults are now looking to straighten their teeth anonymously. Due to both their appearance and the fact that these services offer simple ways to correct alignment issues missed in childhood, Invisalign has also become something of a busy adult’s brace choice.

Clear braces are also installed on many adults, who give them a more complete and natural look. Apart from the braces, Invisible aligners are also available, which can be removed, unlike traditional braces, when you need them out for events and parties. The good news is that Invisalign makes an excellent option for them and all those adults who do not want to deal with the social stigma of wearing braces.

Invisalign for Teens

This is also great for younger patients who don’t want to wear traditional metal braces. For teenagers, the transparent aligners are a more discreet solution than conventional braces, an attribute that can be very essential during these years where transpiration is common. They are created to adjust with the development of your child’s teeth, which makes them more appropriate for teens over 15 if they are still experiencing growth.

Invisalign also provides certain features like compliance indicators for the teenage segment of the population, which help in monitoring whether or not they are wearing the aligners as recommended. This ensures the treatment is proceeding as planned.

Invisalign Cost and Timeline

The price of Invisalign depends on several factors, such as location and the complexity of your case, as well as the duration of treatment. Typically, the cost of treatment ranges between $3,000 and $8,000 per case, but some dental insurance covers at least part of the cost. 

Regarding the Invisalign timeline, most wear their aligners for 12 to 18 months. The exact size of time will vary by case. An estimated timeline is provided to you by your orthodontist after your first meeting.

Invisalign Before and After

How do Invisalign Results work? Before and after. However, Invisalign is very effective in treating a large variety of dental issues, including crowding, spacing, and bite issues. Patients can achieve a beautifully straight smile and restore the functionality of their teeth upon completion.

Although results may vary from person to person, the before and after of teeth transformation could look so dramatic that these patients end up with a confident and healthier smile.

Why Choose Tampa Dental Wellness?

At Tampa Dental Wellness, our offices are equipped with the latest in general and cosmetic dentistry technology to help our patients receive unmatched treatment. This can be customized personally to you, and not just treat your dental health in isolation from the rest of your overall well-being. We provide solutions to every problem, from examining and cleaning to complete mouth restoration. 

Our practice is led by Dr. Amy Creech-Gionis, who has been providing care for the residents of the Westchase and Carrollwood communities for over 35 years. We have an array of services available to patients in all stages of life. 

Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation Today!

Now that you know more about this revolutionary dental treatment. Now, your next step is to schedule an Invisalign consultation with your trusted preventative care orthodontist, like Tampa Dental Wellness. They will evaluate your needs and answer any questions about Invisalign. 

More than likely, Invisalign is the answer you have been waiting for. If you are looking for a discreet way to straighten your teeth, or you have just had enough of bracketed orthodontics.

You do not have to wait anymore to get the smile you always wanted. Schedule a consultation to take the first step to smile with confidence.