When weighing your options for orthodontic treatment, you may be gravitating toward the Invisalign system. After all, with its proven results and easy, seemingly carefree use, it’s no wonder why more and more patients are requesting this type of treatment for their smiles. You may be wondering how exactly this type of orthodontic treatment works. Magic, perhaps? Well, let’s get to the facts. How Invisalign straightens teeth is revolutionary in the field of orthodontics.
What Is Invisalign?
If you’re not familiar, Invisalign is a series of clear plastic aligners that are removable, making them a top choice among orthodontic patients. A series of trays, which are switched out about every two weeks per your orthodontist’s instructions, work to move your teeth into better positions within the mouth. Invisalign is popular because it doesn’t include any brackets or wires, like you would expect with braces. For maximum effectiveness, patients are instructed to wear their aligners for 20-22 hours every day, removing them to eat and drink only.
How Invisalign Straightens Teeth
So how do these little magic trays work? As you replace your previous tray with a new tray, you can expect your teeth to shift gradually into place. You see, each Invisalign tray shapes the teeth into slightly straighter positions. The next tray in the series helps your teeth become slightly straighter than the last, and it’s expected that your teeth will move about 0.25 mm with each tray replacement.
Types of Invisalign Treatment Plans
If the Invisalign system is right for you, your orthodontist will take digital scans of your teeth, so that they can plan out your treatment accordingly. You’ll receive your aligners with detailed instructions from your orthodontist and you’ll be on your way to achieving that perfect smile. Invisalign is a smart system, utilizing slight force and timing to effectively move teeth, applying gradual pressure to certain teeth during one stage of treatment and other areas of the mouth during the next stage of treatment.
Depending on the severity of your orthodontic issue, an Invisalign system may be recommended. The following are the Invisalign products with estimated treatment times:
- Invisalign Full: severe issues, treatment time of about 12 months or longer
- Invisalign Lite: moderate issues, treatment time of between 7-9 months
- Invisalign Express: mild issues, treatment time of less than 6 months
- Invisalign Teen: moderate to severe issues, treatment time of 12-24 months
- Invisalign First: bite issues, narrow top arch, treatment time 12 months or less
Benefits of Invisalign
A host of benefits accompany the Invisalign system. Being virtually invisible, this type of orthodontic treatment appeals to many, and paired with being removable, Invisalign fits into everyday life with ease. Treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild to severe, Invisalign can be a more comfortable way to straighten teeth.
Patients with Invisalign won’t have to worry about wires and brackets or certain food restrictions. This is why Invisalign has become a popular way to tackle orthodontic issues. With the evolution of the Invisalign system, the game has changed when it comes to getting straight, healthy teeth and a smile you can be proud of for the rest of your life.
At Smith Orthodontics, our team is ready to assist you in getting your perfect smile! Call (304) 865-0000 to get started with us!
