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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the brand name of a type of thin clear aligner used in orthodontic treatment. The aligner is made from a flexible thermoplastic material named SmartTrack. As the name suggests, this product is designed to make orthodontic treatment “less conspicuous,” as the American Association of Orthodontists puts it. Although Invisalign aligners may not be completely invisible, these clear coverings fit tightly over your teeth and are much less noticeable than the brackets and wires of traditional braces.
What types of dental issues can Invisalign correct?
Invisalign can be used for a variety of purposes, including crowding and spacing issues, as well as some mild and moderate bite issues. The Invisalign can be used to treat the following dental issues:
- some types of overbite, underbite, and crossbite issues
- open bite
- gap teeth
- crowded teeth
What’s involved with wearing them?
The first step in the process involves a visit to an orthodontist, who will create a 3-D image of your mouth and jaw. They’ll use this image to put together a plan for moving your teeth into their proper place.
Your orthodontist will then use that plan to create a series of customized plastic aligners. These aligners will apply pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them and moving them into the desired places.
Depending on the instructions, you’ll switch out one set of aligners for a new set about once every week or two. Typically, you’ll need to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day.
What can affect how well Invisalign works?
For Invisalign to work effectively, it’s important to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. The only time you’re supposed to remove the aligners is when you’re:
- eating or drinking
- brushing or flossing your teeth
- cleaning your aligners
You need to be careful when cleaning your aligners. If you use very hot water, it could warp the plastic. This can alter the fit, and affect your progress and the effectiveness of the aligners.
The complexity of your orthodontic issues may also affect how well Invisalign works for you. It may take longer for this treatment to work if you’re dealing with more complex spacing or bite issues.
Invisalign can be used for a variety of purposes, including crowding and spacing issues, as well as some mild and moderate bite issues. It may be a good option for you if you don’t have a complicated bite or crowding issue and you’d prefer a less visible treatment than braces.
Reach out to us to talk about your teeth, what type of orthodontic treatment you may need, and whether Invisalign is a good option for you.
Looking for an alternative to metal braces?
I know you have heard of Invisalign, but have you heard of ClearCorrect. ClearCorrect is the clear and simple choice. No wires. No brackets. Just clear, convenient comfort—every reason to smile. The difference between Invisalign and ClearCorrect is that ClearCorrect is made in the USA.
With ClearCorrect, your dentist or orthodontist can straighten your teeth using a series of clear, custom, removable aligners. Each aligner moves your teeth just a little bit at a time until you eventually get straight teeth.
How does it work?
You and your doctor will evaluate your teeth and talk about any problems or goals you have for your smile. Once you and your doctor establish ClearCorrect is the right treatment option for you, your doctor will take impressions, photos, and x-rays of your teeth that ClearCorrect uses in manufacturing your custom aligners. Then your doctor writes a prescription for your custom aligners and sends it to ClearCorrect.
What can it do?
ClearCorrect can treat a wide variety of issues that keep people from achieving their ideal smiles. Straighter teeth don’t just look better; they work better too. Poorly-aligned teeth can interfere with bite function, wear out quicker, and are more prone to cavities.
For more information, visit clearcorrect.com
Call our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zeik for ClearCorrect® at (732) 863-8040 or use our online form to request your appointment.