What is Invisalign?
Traditional braces are necessary when a dental patient has major cosmetic issues, like a severe overbite or major crowding. But if a patient has a few minor tooth imperfections, like a slightly crooked smile, small gaps or teeth that have moved out of position, Invisalign braces may be an option. From the office of Bloomfield Avenue Dental Associate in Drexel Hill, PA, explore the benefits and the process of getting Invisalign to correct orthodontic problems.
Invisalign Braces
Although they’re often called braces, Invisalign is actually an orthodontic system that uses a set of clear plastic trays to align the teeth into a better position. The trays are designed to fit over each individual patient’s teeth, so they must be custom-designed. This system was first introduced to the world in the late 1990s and is now helping millions of dental patients across the world achieve their ideal smiles.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign trays work by forming a new model for the patient’s teeth to adjust to over time. With each tray change, the teeth continue to move. The trays are created by an advanced technology that can map out how to adjust the teeth into a more attractive and healthy position. After taking impressions, this computer technology shapes and forms each tray in the treatment plan. The patient must visit the Stamford orthodontist’s office every one to two months to receive the next aligner and have an exam.
Invisalign Benefits
If a patient is a candidate, there are a number of benefits of choosing Invisalign. The first is the period of time required to complete the treatment plan. Metal braces take years—Invisalign can take just a few months depending on the problem. Many patients have their ideal smile in under a year. Another benefit is that the patient can often wear Invisalign braces without them being noticed. And while traditional metal braces can’t be removed, trays can be taken off when needed for eating and important meetings.
