Invisalign FAQ’s
Invisalign is a great way to aesthetically guide your teeth into the ideal alignment. It’s important to know if Invisalign is right for you, so let’s uncover the details about this orthodontic system.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses clear aligners to gently correct crowding and problems with the bite. The process happens gradually, just like with regular braces. People generally cannot tell that you’re wearing the clear aligners, so there’s no embarrassment from the brackets and wires of traditional braces.
What are the Advantages of Invisalign Over Regular Braces?
The biggest advantage of using clear aligners is that no one can tell that you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment! Clear aligners are also much more comfortable than traditional braces. With Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about pain from brackets rubbing on your cheeks and lips, and no more worries that a wire might break or irritate the inside of your mouth.
Do I Need to See an Orthodontist for Invisalign?
The great news is that our Newport Beach, CA dentist can provide Invisalign treatment right in the office. Also, since there are no wires involved, there is no need to come in for adjustments. You will simply have a schedule of when you will switch out your aligners, which is typically every one or two weeks. We’ll see you every couple of months or so to evaluate your progress.
What Caused My Crowding?
When teeth don’t have enough room in the mouth to move into their proper positions, you’ll notice your teeth look crowded and out of alignment. Teeth can also shift back into the position they were in before orthodontic treatment if retainers aren’t used as directed.
Can I Get Invisalign with Previous Dental Work?
It depends. If you have veneers, crowns, or bridges, our Newport Beach, CA dentist can evaluate your specific situation to see if clear aligners are a good option for you.
What are Clear Aligners and How do They Work?
Clear aligners are thermoplastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. The specific Invisalign technology is called SmartTrack and they are BPA-free and FDA approved. Clear aligners help to move your teeth into the position determined by your digital treatment plan. You will have multiple aligners, each a bit different than the last, over the course of your treatment.
How Does Invisalign Work?
First, impressions are taken of your teeth, which are used to create your trays and create your treatment plan. Small tooth-colored materials may be placed on some of the teeth to help the clear aligners do their job. You will periodically switch out your trays, and you will need to wear your aligners all day and all night, except for when you eat, brush, and floss.
Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign Treatment?
Traditional braces aren’t right for everyone; especially adults. For cases of mild crowding, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and closing gaps in teeth, Invisalign works quite well. Schedule a consultation with our Newport Beach, CA dentist to find out if you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment.
If I’ve Had Braces in the Past, Can I Still Get Invisalign?
It’s quite common for those who had braces as a teenager to come back as an adult and get treatment again. Adults start to notice teeth shifting back out of alignment, and that’s when they know it’s time to ask about Invisalign. This movement happens because removeable retainers aren’t worn as prescribed, either because they’re forgotten about or lost. On the bright side, these individuals make great candidates for Invisalign.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
Average treatment with Invisalign takes between 12 to 18 months. Your specific case will determine exactly how much time is required. It’s also important to note that compliance with wearing your clear aligners is very important for staying on schedule. If you don’t always wear Invisalign as prescribed, your treatment time could be extended.
How Do I Take Care of My Clear Aligners?
It’s important to take good care of your clear aligners so that they continue to do their job well. You will need to keep them clean to keep your teeth healthy and cavity free. For cleaning purposes, you can use a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also use the Invisalign Cleaning System to loosen settled buildup. Avoid using hot water on the clear aligners because they can warp, rendering them useless.
Will I Need to Wear Retainers After Treatment?
It’s a good idea to wear some type of retainer after treatment to avoid the gradual movement of teeth back to the position they were before you wore Invisalign. Sometimes permanent retainers are attached to the backside of the lower and/or upper front teeth. Another great option is a clear retainer that can be worn at night.
Schedule a consultation today with our Newport Beach, CA dentist to see if adult orthodontic treatment with Invisalign is right for you!
About Dr. Yazdan
