Do you hide your smile because of crooked teeth? Is your bite uncomfortable due to untreated orthodontic issues?
Tyler Family Dental is your local Invisalign provider. Our dental care team can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile using this clear aligner system. Invisalign can provide a discreet way to treat your mild to moderate orthodontic concerns.
What is Invisalign and How Does it Work?
Invisalign is a somewhat new orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, the aligners are nearly invisible, making the treatment more discreet. Clear aligners are more appealing to adults and teens due to hardly being noticeable.
Each Invisalign aligner is custom-made to fit each person’s teeth. These aligners work gently, gradually shifting teeth into the most healthy and appealing position. Each week, you will start a new set of aligners. This slow and steady tooth movement ensures your teeth continue to move toward the correct position, providing a comfortable and reassuring treatment experience.
Invisalign can address a wide range of dental issues for teens and adults, including:
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- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Open bites
- Crooked teeth
Invisalign: What To Expect
The Invisalign process begins with a consultation and evaluation of your smile to be sure that this treatment option is the best solution for your needs and aesthetic goals.
Once the choice has been made to move forward, we will take digital scans of your mouth chairside using a handheld scanner. This easy, convenient process will provide the digital imagery necessary for creating custom aligners to reposition your teeth.
It takes about 2-3 weeks for the aligners to be prepared and sent to us by the Invisalign lab. When they are ready, you will come to the office for the placement of the initial set of aligners. During this visit we will discuss the timing of aligner changes and how to care for them during your treatment.
Typically, patients change aligners every two weeks. Invisalign is a convenient orthodontic treatment option, and the aligners can be removed as needed, making it easy to enjoy your favorite foods and to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy.
Other than removal for oral hygiene and eating, the aligners are kept in place for around 22 hours per day.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
Invisalign and traditional braces are teeth-straightening treatments that will correct misaligned teeth. However, they are vastly different in their approach and aesthetics. Invisalign uses a series of see-through, removable aligners that the Invisalign software custom-creates for each patient.
Appearance
One of the main differences between Invisalign and traditional braces is appearance. Invisalign aligners are clear and nearly invisible when worn, making them a more discreet option. People self-conscious about wearing braces, especially adults, often prefer Invisalign because the aligners are difficult to notice.
Traditional braces, on the other hand, are made of metal and are much more visible. While there are options for ceramic or tooth-colored brackets to make braces less noticeable, they are still more apparent than Invisalign aligners. Some people, especially younger patients, enjoy customizing their braces with colorful rubber bands, but for those who want a subtle look, Invisalign is the clear winner.
Comfort and Convenience
Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, which tends to be more comfortable than traditional braces’ metal brackets and wires. With braces, the metal components can irritate the inside of the mouth, causing soreness, especially after adjustments. Invisalign wearers generally experience less discomfort, although there may be some pressure when switching to a new set of aligners.
In terms of convenience, Invisalign is also more flexible. The aligners are removable, so you can take them out when eating, brushing, and flossing. This means you can enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions, unlike braces, where hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can damage the brackets and wires. However, Invisalign aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours a day to be effective, so it requires discipline to remember to put them back in after eating or brushing.
Treatment Time
Treatment time for both Invisalign and traditional braces varies depending on the severity of the dental issue. On average, Invisalign treatment takes about 12 to 18 months, but minor corrections may take as little as six months. Traditional braces typically require 18 to 24 months for full treatment, though some cases can take longer.
While both treatments are effective, traditional braces are often better suited for more complex dental issues. For example, braces can correct significant bite problems or rotate teeth more efficiently than Invisalign, which may make braces the better option in some cases.
Cost
The cost of Invisalign and traditional braces is generally comparable, although prices can vary depending on the case’s complexity, location, and the orthodontist’s fees. Invisalign may be slightly more expensive than traditional braces, but many patients feel the added comfort and discreet appearance are worth the extra cost. It’s important to check with your orthodontist and insurance provider to understand the full cost of each option.
Maintenance
Traditional braces require regular visits to the orthodontist for adjustments and extra care when brushing and flossing. Food can easily get stuck in the brackets and wires, making it more challenging to keep teeth clean.
With Invisalign, the aligners need to be cleaned regularly by brushing them and soaking them in a special cleaning solution. Since they are removable, it’s easier to maintain good oral hygiene with Invisalign, as you can brush and floss your teeth normally.
Caring for Invisalign Aligners
Because of its clear, removable aligners, Invisalign is a popular choice for straightening teeth. Proper care of the aligners is essential to getting the best results from Invisalign. Good care ensures that your treatment stays on track and helps keep your aligners clean, clear, and odor-free.
1. Clean Your Aligners Regularly
One of the most important aspects of caring for Invisalign aligners is cleaning them properly. Aligners must be cleaned daily to prevent the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and food particles, which can cause bad odors or stains. Here’s how to clean your aligners:
- Rinse Your Aligners: When you remove your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water. This helps wash away any saliva and bacteria.
- Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap to brush your aligners gently. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and cause scratches on the aligners, making them appear cloudy.
- Soak Aligners: Soak your aligners in a special Invisalign cleaning solution or a mixture of water and a denture cleaner at least once daily. This helps remove bacteria and keeps your aligners fresh.
Avoid using hot water to clean your aligners. High temperatures can warp the plastic, affecting the fit and effectiveness of the aligners.
2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
In addition to caring for your Invisalign aligners, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Because the aligners are worn for 20-22 hours a day, any food or bacteria left on your teeth can become trapped, leading to cavities, gum disease, or bad breath. Here’s how to maintain a clean, healthy mouth:
- Brush After Every Meal: Always brush your teeth after eating or drinking anything other than water before putting your aligners back in. This prevents food particles from being trapped under the aligners, which can lead to plaque buildup and bad odors.
- Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between your teeth that your toothbrush might miss. Flossing is crucial to prevent decay since aligners fit snugly over your teeth.
- Rinse Your Mouth: If you don’t have time to brush, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash before putting the aligners back in to reduce the amount of bacteria on your teeth.
3. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear, making them barely noticeable. To keep them that way, avoiding foods and drinks that can stain the aligners or your teeth is important. Some common staining culprits include:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Soda
- Tomato sauce
- Berries
If you consume any of these, remove your aligners and brush your teeth before putting them back in. Drinking water while wearing your aligners is safe, but always remove them when consuming anything else.
4. Remove Aligners Properly
Removing your aligners carefully is important to avoid damaging them. Follow these tips to safely take out your aligners:
- Use Both Hands: Pull from the back of your mouth with both hands, moving forward to remove the aligners. This prevents unnecessary strain on the aligners, which can cause them to crack or bend.
- Avoid Using Your Nails: Using your fingernails to pull off the aligners can damage them and your gums. If you have difficulty removing them, use an aligner removal tool.
Always store your aligners in their case when they’re not in your mouth to protect them from damage and to keep them clean.
5. Store Aligners Safely
Whenever you remove your aligners, store them in the provided Invisalign case. Storing them in a napkin, on a table, or in your pocket can lead to accidental damage, loss, or exposure to bacteria. Having an extra aligner case on hand for travel or when you’re on the go is also a good idea.
If you misplace your aligners, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. They may recommend wearing your previous set of aligners or give you a replacement to avoid delaying your treatment.
6. Wear Aligners for the Required Time
For Invisalign to be effective, you must wear the aligners for 20-22 hours daily. You should only remove them when eating, drinking, or cleaning your teeth. If you don’t wear the aligners for the recommended time, your teeth may not move as planned, which can extend your treatment time.
To make wearing your aligners a habit:
- Set reminders on your phone to help you remember to put them back in after meals.
- Keep your aligner case with you at all times so you can remove your aligners easily whenever necessary.
7. Switch to New Aligners as Directed
Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you’ll receive multiple sets of aligners. Each set is designed to move your teeth gradually into their desired positions. As directed by your dentist, you’ll typically switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Be sure to follow the schedule provided by your dentist. Failing to switch on time can slow your progress while switching too early can cause discomfort and disrupt the treatment process.
Invisalign FAQs
Are you ready to align your teeth with a discreet orthodontic treatment? We understand you may have several questions about the treatment and what to expect. Our team put together a list of common questions we receive about Invisalign. Please read through the answers to these frequently asked questions and contact us if you have further questions.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign?
Our dental care team will evaluate your teeth and bite before recommending Invisalign. While most patients are candidates for Invisalign, we want to ensure your treatment will be successful.
How long is Invisalign treatment?
Invisalign is typically completed in 12-15 months, with some patients needing more time for complex tooth movement. During your consultation, we will give you an estimated treatment time.
Does Invisalign hurt?
For patients, Invisalign treatment is very tolerable. However, you should expect some discomfort when forcing your teeth to shift into a new position. When you begin a new set of aligners, you will feel pressure and mild pain or discomfort. This minor discomfort indicates that your treatment is working and your teeth are shifting.
The aligners are smooth, small, and generally more comfortable than metal braces. Traditional braces often cause irritation and cuts inside the mouth. Invisalign comfort level is often what makes it more popular than braces.
What are Invisalign aligners made of?
Invisalign aligners are made from a particular thermoplastic known as SmartTrack® material. This material provides a more precise and comfortable fit than traditional aligner materials. Each aligner exerts consistent and gentle pressure because SmartTrack® material allows better control over tooth movements. Also, the clear and almost invisible material offers an aesthetically pleasing choice for discreet orthodontic treatment.
What happens after my Invisalign treatment?
After your Invisalign treatment, we will give you a retainer to maintain your new smile. This retainer is vital to keep your teeth in their new positions. After orthodontic treatment, it is normal for teeth to shift back over time naturally.
We suggest you wear a retainer full-time after finishing your last set of aligners. Your dentist will slowly reduce the time you need to wear it. Eventually, you will wear it each evening to maintain your results. We will monitor your results during your regular dental visits to ensure your long-term success.
Can I use Invisalign to treat orthodontic relapse?
Yes, you can use Invisalign to treat orthodontic relapse. Orthodontic relapse is when teeth shift back to their original positions after orthodontic treatment. Invisalign offers a discreet and comfortable way to correct minor to moderate relapse issues. Consult with your Tyler, TX, dentist to see if Invisalign will work for your specific case of orthodontic relapse.
How will Invisalign fit my needs and lifestyle?
Invisalign offers a tailor-made solution that fits your dental needs and lifestyle. Your custom aligners work fast, ensuring quicker results when you compare them to traditional braces. Also, the clear aligners provide you with more freedom than braces. You can eat, drink, and maintain oral hygiene with ease. The clear aligners are discreet, making them a good option for professional and social settings. Also, the treatment is a cost-effective alternative to metal braces and is just as effective.
Schedule a Consultation for Invisalign in Tyler, TX
Call Tyler Family Dental today at 903-623-8317 to book your appointment to learn more about Invislign in Tyler, TX. You can also request an appointment online and we will get back to you as soon as possible.