Invisalign is an alternative treatment of wearing traditional braces. The treatment offers a number of benefits, including enhanced attractiveness, comfort, and convenience as compared to braces – and it can straighten out your teeth without impacting heavily on your day-to-day life.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is named for what they are: invisible aligners. This removable treatment involves wearing a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually straighten your teeth without the need for metal brackets or wires, which can irritate the mouth.
What are the aligners made of?
The Invisalign aligners are made of a special and unique clear, smooth, flexible thermoplastic material. They are sometimes called “adult braces” because people cannot tell you’re wearing them.
How does Invisalign work?
Your dentist will use X-rays, pictures, and impressions of your teeth to create a detailed treatment plan. Digital 3-D images are then created to map out the exact movements of your teeth as they are straightened because you will receive a new aligner about every 2 weeks.
Each new custom-made aligner is designed to apply the right amount of force to the correct places in order to gradually move the teeth into place. You will receive the new aligners until your teeth reach the correct position, which will be in around 12 months.
How many hours per day should I wear the aligners?
For optimum results, you should aim to wear the aligners 20-22 hours per day, including while you sleep. They should only be removed in order to eat, drink, and to brush, and floss your teeth.
What are the benefits?
Invisalign aligners are not only virtually invisible and removable, but they are also very comfortable. The unique material they are made of provides an excellent fit, and they are trimmed to fit perfectly with the gum line. There are no metal brackets or wires that could irritate the mouth. Plus, they can be removed for special occasions or for pictures.
Will the aligners affect my speech?
It will take a brief amount of time for your tongue to get used to the aligners being in your mouth. At first, you may experience a slight lisp or speech impediment, but this should only last one or two days while you become accustomed to them. If you continue to have issues speaking with them in your mouth, call your dentist’s office.
Is it normal for my teeth to feel loose when I remove my aligner?
Because Invisalign aligners work by gradually shifting your teeth into a new position, the gums must re-form around each tooth as they shift. This may cause some temporary feeling of looseness around the teeth. If you are concerned, contact your dentist.
What dental problems can Invisalign correct?
Invisalign aligners can treat most teeth-alignment issues, whether simple or complex. This can include:
- Overcrowded teeth
- Widely spaced teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
What happens if I damage or lose my aligner?
You should notify your dentist immediately, as delaying this could impact the effectiveness of the treatment.
Invisalign Treatment in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
If you would like to find out more about Invisalign treatment and whether you are a suitable candidate, contact Dr. Hagerman at Hagerman Dental Care in St. Paul, Minnesota today. Call us at (651) 646-2392 or request an appointment via our online form now, and let us transform your smile!
