Just about everyone in San Jose, California, would like to have straighter teeth. Yet many adults who didn’t undergo orthodontic treatment as children resign themselves to life with a crooked smile – and that doesn’t have to be your future.
With Invisalign®, you can straighten your grin in a discreet, convenient and comfortable way. Metal braces are no longer the only orthodontic option for a smile makeover, and over the last several years, clear aligner systems like Invisalign® have become increasingly popular. Of course, every patient has unique needs, and while the Invisalign® system can correct most minor to moderate orthodontic issues, it isn’t always the right choice. Read on to learn more.
What is Invisalign®?
The Invisalign® system is a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Rather than relying on brackets and wires to straighten the teeth, Invisalign® involves a series of clear orthodontic aligners, molded from a medical-grade thermoplastic polymer.
Also known as invisible braces, clear aligners are custom-made to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. An iTero® scanner is used to obtain high-resolution 3D images of the mouth, and specialized computer software allows for the creation of a personal orthodontic treatment plan.
With Invisalign®, a straighter smile comes by means of clear trays that fit snugly over the teeth. Each set is typically worn for one or two weeks, then those orthodontic aligners are swapped out for a new pair. To be effective, the trays need to remain in place for 20 to 22 hours a day, but thanks to the discreet, comfortable design, this is easily done. As for the number of orthodontic trays required, that varies – some San Jose patients achieve their smile goals with as few as five sets of clear aligners, while others might need a few dozen.
In any case, the Invisalign® system can be the ideal solution for a wide range of orthodontic concerns. Dentists frequently recommend clear aligners instead of metal brace for the treatment of the following:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Crossbite
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Rotated teeth
However, not everyone is a candidate for clear orthodontic aligners. To work out if Invisalign® is the right choice for you, you’ll need to consult with a qualified San Jose dentist.
Benefits of the Invisalign® System
The clear alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign® is widely considered to be a superior orthodontic solution. Since gaining approval by the FDA in 1998, the Invisalign® system has grown to become one of the most popular orthodontic treatment options ever developed. The reasons for this are many:
Appearance
Unlike metal braces, Invisalign® orthodontic aligners are virtually invisible. Most people would need to get super close and really stare at your teeth to realize that you’re wearing them – the trays don’t draw attention or detract from the smile. As such, you can undergo orthodontic treatment without feeling self-conscious.
Comfort
Clear orthodontic aligners are completely smooth, and the trays are designed to closely fit over the teeth. There are no sharp edges, pokey wires or obtrusive metal brackets with the Invisalign® system, so there’s almost no chance of irritation to the mouth. Invisible braces are secure and comfortable, even during sleep.
Satisfaction
With traditional metal braces, you have to watch what you eat. Foods that are really hard, sticky or chewy are off the menu, as they can easily get caught in the wires and brackets. With Invisalign®, there is no list of forbidden foods – simply slip the orthodontic trays off before you dine, and you can enjoy anything you like.
Convenience
Go with metal braces, and you’ll need to get them adjusted by a dentist every two to three weeks or so. The Invisalign® system doesn’t require nearly as many dental visits – at least a few sets of aligner trays are provided at a time, so your orthodontic goals can be accomplished with minimal time at the dentist office.
Manageability
One of the biggest aggravations with traditional metal braces is the inevitability of orthodontic emergencies. Broken brackets are all too common, and resolving the issue requires a trip to the dentist. Clear aligners are more easily managed, as there are no emergency situations, just a few scheduled dental visits.
Practicality
Clear orthodontic trays are removable, which makes maintaining oral hygiene a simple matter – all you need to do is remove the aligners and clean them, then brush and floss as usual. And since invisible braces are easy to snap on and off, they’re a practical choice for athletes who wear mouth guards to prevent dental trauma.
Correcting Orthodontic Issues with Invisalign®
Is the Invisalign® system the right orthodontic solution for you? How long will you need to wear clear aligners? Will your dental plan or healthcare benefits cover the cost? How do you take care of invisible braces? What happens when you’ve completed orthodontic treatment? For answers to all of your questions about Invisalign®, turn to the professional team at The Glen Dental.
We’d love to provide you with a grin that makes you happy, and given our expertise in cosmetic dentistry, you can count on us to correct your smile imperfections. To discuss the Invisalign® system and learn if you can achieve your orthodontic goals with clear aligners, contact The Glen Dental in San Jose, California, and schedule a consultation today.