Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth without the use of metal braces. It is a series of custom-made, transparent appliances that cover the teeth and, over time, gently move them into the correct position. Invisalign is less noticeable than traditional metal braces, making it a popular choice for those looking for a discreet orthodontic solution. But what exactly does Invisalign do?When considering orthodontic treatment options, it's important to understand the advantages of Invisalign compared to traditional braces.
While still limited, research suggests that Invisalign may be more effective for some problems than others. Traditional braces use fixed wires to “align” the teeth, while Invisalign uses a series of molds that, over a series of months, force the teeth into their new and improved position. The tooth-colored Invisalign aligners and accessories are made of BPA-free plastic and are much more comfortable than traditional metal braces. The orthodontist or dentist decides if Invisalign is an appropriate corrective treatment for the person's particular problems. Users work with an orthodontist or dentist trained in Invisalign, who creates a set of personalized aligners that the company calls “practically transparent”.
Prospective Invisalign patients should not expect a positive result if they take out the trays for days or even hours at a time. However, based on some available research, Invisalign seems to be more effective than other types of transparent aligners. The Invisalign system is a progressive set of transparent aligners that the user wears for a period of 3 to 18 months. To get the best results from Invisalign, users should wear their aligners 20 to 22 hours a day for 3 to 18 months, and take them off only to eat and brush their teeth. Recent research on transparent aligners shows that Invisalign can be as effective as traditional braces in correcting mild to moderate alignment problems. Invisalign can't solve complex cases, but it can address mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and biting issues.
Now that you know what to expect from the Invisalign process, it should seem like a less daunting procedure.
