There have been many improvements to modern orthodontic techniques and technology in recent years, giving patients more choices than ever for straightening smiles. Here at Selden Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer a variety of orthodontic options, including Invisalign clear aligner therapy. Here’s everything you need to know about Invisalign.
As our most popular alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign is a subtle, flexible way to improve your smile! The clear aligners give patients the same beautiful results as braces, but without the metal, wires, and bands. This makes Invisalign especially attractive to adults and teens who prefer to avoid the appearance of traditional braces. It’s also a great choice for athletes, band members, or anyone who would like to continue their active lifestyle uninhibited during orthodontic treatment.
If you’re not familiar with the Invisalign system, you may be wondering what exactly it is, and how it works to straighten your smile. Below you’ll find some of the most commonly asked questions about Invisalign, and some of the benefits you can expect from this innovative treatment option. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Invisalign? How do the aligners work?
To understand how the Invisalign system works, it helps to know more about the difference between fixed and removable appliances. Braces are a fixed appliance, meaning the brackets are attached directly to the front of the teeth and can only be removed by an experienced orthodontic professional.
Invisalign aligners are removable appliances. Although the aligners are custom-designed to fit snugly over your own teeth, no part of them is actually attached to the teeth. The Invisalign system uses a series of these aligners to shift your teeth in much the same way brackets and wires do. They’re made of a special type of thermoplastic resin that is designed to be both comfortable and strong enough to move the teeth into alignment over time. Aligners are virtually invisible, too, something patients love!
In order to accomplish tooth movement, the aligners must be switched out at predetermined intervals throughout the treatment process. Depending on your particular treatment plan, you can expect to switch aligners out every 1-2 weeks. This allows them to keep up with the movements your teeth are making. In order for the system to work as intended, you’ll also need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours daily, throughout the course of treatment. This is very important! Since the aligners are removable, it’s up to you to wear them as directed. Failure to do so can result in a longer treatment time, or interfere with your overall results.
Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign can be used to treat a wide variety of orthodontic issues in teens and adults, including crowded teeth, gapped teeth, overbites, and underbites. Cases that are more complex or severe may require more precise tooth control than a removable aligner is able to achieve. Selden Orthodontics offers a complimentary consultation, during which Dr. Selden will be able to determine if Invisalign is a good fit for you. He will be able to provide you with a specific recommendation based on your unique needs, lifestyle, and goals. We’ll only recommend the treatment we believe is best for your individual smile!
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Every case is different and each patient will respond to treatment in their own way, so there’s no “one size fits all” answer to this question. The amount of time you’ll need to wear aligners will depend on the specifics of your particular case, and can only be determined by Dr. Selden after an initial orthodontic evaluation. In general, however, most patients will need to wear aligners for about 9-15 months.
Is Invisalign an affordable treatment option?
At Selden Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing our patients with affordable, high-quality orthodontic care, including Invisalign. Your consultation with us is free, and will also include a breakdown of all applicable treatment fees. For your convenience, we accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. We are in-network with Delta and Cigna DPPO, and will be happy to assist you in coordinating benefits with your insurer to ensure you maximize your coverage.
What benefits does the Invisalign system offer?
Flexibility
Food restrictions can be one of the biggest learning curves for braces patients. So much of our daily life revolves around food that it can be difficult to say no to so many common snacks and treats, including popcorn, nuts, chips, and lots of candy. Because Invisalign aligners are removed at mealtimes, you’ll still be able to eat just about everything you normally would, as long as you remember to brush and floss afterwards. Invisalign treatment means never having to sacrifice your favorite foods for a straighter smile!
The benefits of Invisalign don’t stop at the dinner table, though. Wearing braces while engaging in athletics of any kind can run the risk of broken brackets and wires, irritation, and pain. With Invisalign, aligners can be removed before practice or the big game and replaced with a regular mouthguard. The aligner is simply popped back in once you’re off the court or field.
Musicians benefit from this removability, too. For those who play wind instruments, braces can sometimes get in the way. Invisalign aligners can be removed during practice or concerts, leaving you free to make all the music your heart desires!
Makes brushing a breeze
Having a good oral hygiene routine is important for everybody, but especially orthodontic patients. Brushing and flossing with traditional braces can be a little tricky, and many patients find it difficult to get into all the little nooks and crannies created by their brackets and wires. Since Invisalign aligners are removed prior to brushing, taking care of your teeth and gums is as easy as ever! Cleaning the aligners themselves couldn’t be easier, either. There are cleaning kits specifically for this job, or you can just brush and rinse them with warm water instead.
Comfort
Invisalign aligners are made of a special thermoplastic material that is customized for a comfortable fit, even when wearing them so many hours out of the day. lightweight plastic that is custom-fitted to each patient’s teeth. The plastic is light and smooth, and unlike metal braces, there aren’t any wires or metal brackets that can irritate your mouth, gums, or cheeks.
Freedom
The biggest reason patients choose Invisalign is that it offers an incredibly discreet way to get a healthier, straighter smile! This can be a big benefit for anyone feeling self-conscious about undergoing orthodontic treatment. Removability is another feature our patients love. This system lets you remove your aligners for short periods of time, so you can let your natural smile shine through for special occasions like weddings, senior pictures, and prom.
Get the smile you deserve with Invisalign by Selden Orthodontics
With removable aligners that are comfortable, clear, and as effective as traditional braces, it’s no wonder Invisalign continues to grow in popularity year after year! If you’re in Huntersville, Charlotte, or the surrounding communities, and would like to learn more about how Invisalign could benefit you, get in touch today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Selden. This is the perfect time to take the first step towards the beautiful smile you deserve!