subject: Understanding Invisalign Braces [print this page] One of the newer trends in teeth straightening is Invisalign braces. Unlike traditional braces, these do not actually attach to your teeth, and are not make of wires. Treatment involves wearing a series of clear alignment trays that are custom fitted for your teeth. These trays gradually shift the position of your teeth until they are arranged in a pleasing manner. They are made from plastic that does not contain BPA, and does not irritate your cheeks or gums while you are wearing your alignment trays.
Invisalign braces can help to correct a number of dental problems, including teeth that are spaced too closely or too far apart, crossbites, underbites and overbites. While minor problems are easiest to treat, these braces can also treat some more severe dental problems. A dentist trained in using Invisalign braces can help determine if these are an option for you.
The treatment process is relatively simple. After the dentist makes a 3D image of your teeth, he provides you with a new set of trays every two weeks until your teeth are properly aligned. The impressions take about five minutes to make for each the upper and lower teeth, and it can take approximately six weeks for you to get your first set of Invisalign trays. You will need to visit the dentist approximately every six weeks so he can monitor your progress. The entire treatment takes about the same amount of time that it would take to realign your teeth using traditional metal braces for teenagers, and about one year for adults.
Your treatment using Invisalign will likely be more expensive than traditional braces. Similar to regular braces, Invisalign trays are not pain free. The first few days after you start using a new tray will be a little painful, and the trays will be a bit more difficult to put on and take off. The alignment trays may also affect your speaking ability, changing the way you talk slightly until you get used to them.
Unlike traditional braces, you take the alignment trays off your teeth to eat and brush your teeth, and while participating in any sport in which you need to wear a mouth guard. You should wear them almost all day, however, and not take them off more than two to four hours each day. You will need to clean your alignment trays each day, but this is simple and much easier than cleaning your teeth while wearing metal braces. Because they are clear, they aren't as noticeable so some people may not even realize you are trying to get your teeth straightened.
