Invisalign 101: All You Need to Know

Nothing dampers a smile than crowded, crooked, and misaligned teeth. These dental problems affect not only your appearance but also oral health in general. The overcrowded teeth make it challenging to clean the hard-to-reach places, which provides the perfect environment for bacterial growth and increases the risk of decay.

Correcting these dental imperfections is crucial to your oral health, and we have a solution—Invisalign. Before you get Invisalign braces near you, here is what you need to know:

What Are Invisalign?

Invisalign braces are made of a thermoplastic and flexible material that is comfortable to wear than most braces. Although it is curved from plastic, these invisible braces contain no BPA (which is believed to affect the nervous and immune system).

Who Can Use Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign treatment is recommended for adults and teenagers. Children are not suitable candidates because their teeth are still growing, and using these braces can damage the dental structure.

The braces are used to correct a range of dental imperfections. However, because of their design, Invisalign is recommended for mild to moderate dental problems. Please speak to an orthodontist before getting Invisalign near you.

How is Invisalign Treatment Done?

The orthodontic treatment is done in three different steps that include:

  • Assessment and mapping out of the treatment

Before the treatment is initiated, the dentist will assess your dental health to determine if you are suitable for Invisalign treatment. If you have severe malocclusion, our dentist in Torrance will recommend a different orthodontic treatment.

Using 3D dental equipment and scanner, the dentist will take an impression of your dental structure and map out the treatment. The software also helps to determine the pressure and the time needed to move the teeth.

The dental impression is sent to the lab to design Invisalign braces. You will get a set of braces, and then the treatment begins.

  • Wearing the braces

The primary difference between traditional and Invisalign is the treatment process. Invisalign treatment is done at home with frequent visits to the dental office.

For the orthodontic treatment to be effective, you are required to wear the braces for 22 hours, 14-days each set.

  • Retention phase

After the braces are removed, the dentist will give a retainer, which is designed to hold the teeth in place. You need to wear a dental retainer for 24 hours in the first few days, after that you can wear them at night. But, do not worry, the dentist will give you instructions on how to wear and maintain the retainer.

How Long Does the Invisalign Treatment Last?

How long the Invisalign treatment lasts will depend on the severity of the dental problem and your biological makeup. Some people report positive results within six months, but the treatment may last between 12 and 18 months.

What to Expect During the Treatment?

You will have discomfort when you wear the braces for the first time. This is because of the pressure applied to the teeth during treatment. Expect to have the discomfort every time you wear a new set of aligners. Also, it may take time to get used to the braces.

How to Care for Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign gives you the freedom to eat what you want. However, you need to care for the braces to prevent any infections.

  • It is crucial to wear the braces as advised by the dentist—for 22 hours daily.
  • Rinse your aligners every day and before putting them back on after eating to remove any buildup
  • Do not use any toothpaste or hard-bristled toothbrush on the braces.
  • When you are not wearing the braces, soak them in water to keep them moist.
  • If you are traveling, ensure you carry at least an extra set of braces.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have crowded teeth and want a subtle orthodontic treatment, Invisalign is an ideal option. Visit our dental clinic – Digital Smiles and our dentist will examine your teeth to determine your suitability for the Invisalign treatment. We will also discuss other orthodontic treatment that we have and their benefits.