subject: What You Should Know About Invisalign And How It Can Help You [print this page] If you are unhappy with the alignment of your teeth, you are not alone. There are millions of people in America that wish their teeth were straighter. If you are one of these people, you might be surprised to find out that braces are no longer your only option. Since 1999, millions of people have successfully straightened their teeth with Invisalign. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth in a similar amount of time as braces without many of the drawbacks. Talk to your Bellaire dentist today about Invisalign if you are unhappy with the shape of your teeth.
How Invisalign Works
The first thing you need to do if you are considering Invisalign is to have a consultation with your dentist. He or she will be able to tell you if you are a candidate for Invisalign and talk to you about costs and financing options. If you teeth are severely misaligned, you may still need to use traditional orthodontic methods to restore your smile. Once you and your dentist have decided that Invisalign is the best option for you, he or she will begin the procedure by taking X-rays, pictures and impressions of your teeth. These will be used to create a digital 3-D image of your teeth. Using special software, your dentist will then be able to map out how your teeth will move throughout your treatment process. You will even be able to see what your teeth will look like after treatment is finished. Using the same software, your dentist will then create your first set of clear aligners.
Once you have your first set of aligners, you will wear them on your teeth between 20-22 hours per day, only removing them to eat, brush or floss. After about two weeks, you will switch them out for your next set of aligners. Little by little, your teeth will begin to straighten. Approximately every six weeks you will have an appointment with your dentist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. When you have finished with your last set of aligners, you will simply stop wearing them and the process will be complete.
Benefits Of Invisalign Treatment
The most significant advantage of Invisalign is that the clear aligners make it so that no one can tell that you are undergoing treatment. This is a stark contrast to patients' experiences with braces. In addition, Invisalign aligners are removable. This means that you are free to eat whatever you want without restriction. It is also easier to brush and floss your teeth, making it easier for you to maintain healthy teeth and gums during your treatment.
To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule an appointment, contact your dentist in Bellaire today.
