What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign is a state-of-the-art orthodontic treatment system that uses a series of clear, nearly invisible mouthpieces to gradually straighten and align your teeth. Invisalign aligners don’t use brackets, wires, or rubber bands. Instead, they’re made of a flexible thermoplastic known as SmartTrack®. SmartTrack is FDA-approved and incredibly durable. It’s also free of additives, including BPS, BPA, latex, and gluten, making it ideal for people with allergies.
What types of issues can Invisalign correct?
Invisalign aligners are incredibly versatile. The team at Riverside Dental Associates usually prescribes Invisalign to correct mild and moderate orthodontic issues, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Crossbite
- Underbite
- Overbite
You might also benefit from orthodontic treatment with Invisalign if you have gaps or spaces between your teeth.
What is the Invisalign treatment process?
Invisalign treatment starts with a one-on-one consultation at Riverside Dental Associates. During this appointment, your dentist conducts an oral exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you about your goals for treatment.
Your dentist also takes a series of digital impressions and uploads them to a computer. Next, your dentist uses a special program to map out the step-by-step transformation of your smile. After developing a custom plan, your provider sends your impressions to a laboratory that manufactures your first set of aligners.
Once treatment begins, you return to Riverside Dental Associates every 2-3 weeks to change into a new set of aligners. Each new set puts just the right amount of pressure on your teeth, moving them into place.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The length of Invisalign treatment varies from person to person, but most people achieve their desired results within 12-18 months. To speed up the process, it’s important you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day. You should also make sure to attend all of your follow-up appointments and follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.
How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?
Cleaning your Invisalign aligners is easy. Simply rinse them off in cool tap water a few times a day. At night, you should also brush them with toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove plaque, tartar, and food debris. For more thorough cleaning, ask your Riverside Dental Associates provider about the Invisalign Cleaning System.
If you want to transform your smile, request an Invisalign consultation today by calling the office or request an appointment online.
