Do you have misaligned teeth? For years, your only option was traditional braces. These metal bracket and wire orthodontics can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Thankfully, Invisalign in Chesterfield offers a way to straighten your teeth in the most comfortable and discreet way possible. But what is Invisalign and how does it straighten your teeth? Keep reading to learn the answers as well as some other frequently asked questions about this aligning treatment.
What is Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear plastic aligning trays to gradually shift your teeth into position. This thin, clear, flexible plastic snugly fits over your teeth, making it almost invisible to the public.
Your dentist will create a treatment plan that is specific to your smile, which digitally maps out how your teeth will shift to achieve a straight set of teeth. Then, your clear aligners will be made to apply the perfect amount of force to keep your smile comfortable while shifting your teeth.
What Makes Me a Candidate for Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign works best for those with minor to moderate alignment issues. Any problems with your bite will have to be addressed with traditional braces. Additionally, Invisalign treatment is typically used for adults and older teens because they require responsibility and commitment. Because they’re removeable, patients have to be dedicated to wearing them correctly, whereas braces are permanently fixed to the smile.
What is the Treatment Process Like?
Once your aligners are made, you’ll wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day. Each aligner should be worn for 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the recommendation from your dentist. Each aligner is designed slightly different to slowly shift your teeth into place, which is why it’s important to switch them out as directed. Typically, this process takes 12 to 18 months, which tends to be faster than traditional braces.
How Will Invisalign Treatment Affect My Everyday Life?
The best part of Invisalign treatment is that the aligners are removeable. Because of this. The only way this treatment will affect your everyday life is that you have to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day. This means you can eat all of your favorite foods and still go about your social and professional lives without any self-consciousness about the look of your smile.
How Do I Take Care of My Aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is using the Invisalign Cleaning System or a toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste. Just be sure not to use hot water because it could warp the aligner. Also, it’s important to clean your teeth after eating and before putting your aligning trays in to prevent food debris and bacteria from staining your aligner.
Now that you know the answers to some common questions about Invisalign treatment, does it sound right for you? Talk to your dentist in Chesterfield about getting a perfectly straight smile using discreet Invisalign aligners.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Jeff Yenzer is a Missouri native who loves caring for patients in his community. He takes pride in offering Invisalign treatment at his family dental practice to meet the wide-range of needs his patients have. For any questions, he can be contacted through his website or by phone at (636) 778-3019.