Everyone wants a beautiful smile with straight teeth because it looks more inviting and boosts confidence. Plus, it can improve your well-being because you can easily brush and floss to avoid tooth loss later.
If you want a straighter smile, invisible (lingual) braces can help. This type of dental treatment should be performed by a professional Windsor dental clinic. Likewise, you’ll need to practice good oral hygiene while you’re under a dentist’s care to ensure that the process works.
While many people choose traditional metal braces because they’re inexpensive, however we all know they highly noticeable! You may want to consider Invisalign a type of invisible braces. The system uses an invisible tray to gently move the teeth to the right positions over time.
Overall, it’s wise to consider orthodontic treatment now to avoid having to get dental implants or dentures in the future. Let’s learn more about Invisalign and its pros and cons for all Windsor residents.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is one of many orthodontic treatments that align your teeth, but let’s learn how it works.
A local Windsor dentist will take impressions from your mouth and use computer-generated images to create the clear aligners. As things progress, you’ll get new trays to change the position of each tooth.
Though traditional braces use fixed wires to pull everything into alignment, Invisalign requires a series of moulds that shift the teeth into the right positions across many months.
The Differences Between Invisalign and Braces
Traditional and Invisalign braces can help you see straighter teeth in time and enjoy better oral health, but there are differences between these two orthodontic treatments.
Overall, traditional braces have been used by dentists and orthodontists for many decades, while Invisalign or invisible braces are a more modern concept.
There are a few similarities between traditional braces and the Invisalign system, but here are some of the differences to note:
- Visible vs. Clear – Invisalign aligners use see-through plastic, so they’re ultimately invisible. Alternatively, traditional braces feature elastic bands and metal wires, making them more visible.
- Treatment Length – Typically, it requires less time to complete the Invisalign process. Some patients only wear the trays for up to 18 months, but traditional braces will generally take two or more years.
- Convenience – You can easily remove the Invisalign trays for eating and drinking. However, most dentists recommend wearing them for about 20 hours per day.
- Invisalign Cost in Windsor- Invisalign generally costs more than traditional braces, so it’s best to talk to a dentist before deciding if this is the right solution.
Suitable Candidates for Invisalign
Almost anyone can use Invisalign if they have crooked teeth. It’s suitable for:
- Adults – Many adults now focus on correctional dental work. Invisalign is ideal because it offers a shorter treatment time and isn’t as visible as traditional braces.
- Teens – Many teenagers prefer Invisalign because the clear braces aren’t as noticeable. Plus, they can correct their orthodontic issues while they’re younger, enjoying healthy teeth as adults.
In some cases, patients who have issues with their back teeth may not be suitable candidates for Invisalign. Contact your local dental clinic to discuss your options.
A Closer Look at the Invisalign Process
It’s important to understand the Invisalign process. While it can change depending on your needs, here are the general steps people experience while at our dental clinic:
- Orthodontic Consultations – We may need to discuss your situation multiple times before beginning the treatment. You’ll learn about the Invisalign process, how it works, and the price you can expect to pay.
- X-Rays – Typically, we will need to take various photos and X-rays of your mouth and facial areas from different angles to get a detailed map of your situation. Usually, we also get impressions of your teeth at this time, which is what we base the trays on.
- Preparatory Work – You might need a small composite patch applied to every tooth so that the aligners can get a grip and start moving your crowded teeth into the right position. Sometimes, this isn’t necessary. However, we may also have to shave areas of your pearly whites so that they will shift more easily. This doesn’t hurt, but it can feel a little odd.
- The First Fitting – Once we’ve created the clear aligners from your tooth impressions, you can start wearing them. Most patients say it feels tight initially. However, we can try different moulds and ensure that everything fits correctly before you leave. Remember that it might seem strange at first, but it shouldn’t be painful. Make sure you speak up if you experience discomfort.
- Mouth Changes – As you start wearing the clear aligners all the time, you will probably feel some discomfort, such as aching, because the teeth are being forced into a new position. This will likely stop after a few days. Likewise, you might notice more sensitivity; there are special toothpaste products we can recommend to deal with this minor inconvenience.
- Changing the Invisalign Braces – Your dentist will determine how often to change your Invisalign aligners. Usually, this happens every one to two weeks, though it can take a little longer. Every new tray is constructed for the next movement phase, which requires regular check-ups. We will let you know when it’s time for your next appointment so that you don’t forget.
Cleaning Your Invisalign Aligners
We recommend that you clean your Invisalign aligners twice daily (morning and night). It’s easy to do, so don’t worry.
You’ll have to clean your trays frequently to remove bacteria build-up. If you don’t, you could have smelly aligners. Use a toothbrush without toothpaste for the best results.
Likewise, you should rinse the trays whenever you remove them during the day. This can freshen them and remove bacteria and build-up, as well.
While you can remove the trays, it’s wise to wear them continuously for 20 to 22 hours every day. Since you’re primarily taking them out at night, you should soak them in a denture cleanser overnight.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign orthodontic appliances offer a wide range of benefits. These include:
- Almost impossible to see
- Can enjoy the perks of healthy teeth
- Removable for eating, drinking, and brushing
- Various types of Invisalign treatments
- Less painful than metal braces
- Financing options available from most dental clinics
Potential Drawbacks of Invisalign
Though Invisalign orthodontic appliances offer many advantages, here are a few potential drawbacks:
- Requires regular visits to update the trays
- May not be covered by your personal insurance plan
- Might not be suitable for those with severe orthodontic issues
Where to Go for Invisalign Treatment
Do you need orthodontic treatments to straighten your teeth and enjoy a perfect smile? You shouldn’t wait to get dental services, and Parkway Family Dental offers exceptional care.
Contact our dental office today to see if Invisalign is right for you. We offer many services, including dental implants, clear braces, teeth whitening, and much more.