Invisalign
Straightening Smiles Clearly
Braces are for kids, right? Today, this is simply not true. More adults than ever before are taking the health and beauty of their smile to the next level. Often, this means some form of orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth. If you are a professional and are not keen on the idea of wearing metal braces for several years in order to obtain a great smile, we have good news for you. Integrity Dental offers Invisalign clear braces that correct misalignments without a mouth full of metal. If you want to know more about Invisalign clear braces, or any other cosmetic dentistry procedure, contact us. Our friendly Farmington dental team is available to talk with you and book your consultation with Dr. Cole.
Why Should I Straighten My Smile?
Many of our patients experience crowded teeth due to a small jaw. Adult patients may have nice straight teeth with just enough room until shifting occurs as third molars, often called wisdom teeth, begin to push their way through the gums, or you may have had orthodontics as a kid or teen and crowding has occurred. Some patients just have large teeth that wind up overlapping one another over time. Although little can be done to stop teeth from coming in crooked, you can correct the problem with orthodontic treatment.
Crooked teeth can contribute to dental health problems, such as difficulty chewing, speech impediments, and excessive dental decay simply because it is hard to keep them clean. By straightening your teeth, you take away all those hiding places where food and bacteria can gather. Not only will you be able to reap health benefits with straighter teeth, you will gain confidence from having a beautiful smile.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Traditional bracket and wire braces move teeth into position using brackets and wires. The brackets are affixed to the fronts of teeth, and wires are used to place pressure on these brackets, shifting teeth into position. Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of clear, plastic alignment trays. Each set of aligners represent your smile one step closer to the desired end result. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks at a time. Then, you simply exchange them for the next set in the series. Every six to eight weeks, you’ll visit our dental office for a checkup where we’ll make sure your smile is moving according to plan. Every patient is different, but most people complete the entire Invisalign process in about a year.
Benefits of Invisalign
Conventional braces rely on metal brackets and wires to force teeth to move. Constant office visits for adjustments are required, and all that force makes teeth and jaws sore and uncomfortable. Invisalign uses a system of clear plastic aligners to gently coax teeth into a more desirable position. Because Invisalign aligners are smooth and slightly flexible, you won’t experience the abrasions and irritations associated with metal in your mouth.
In addition to comfort, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible so you won’t be afraid to smile while you are in treatment. Because you can remove Invisalign to eat and drink, there are no restrictions. Enjoy popcorn, hard candy, and even gum without feeling guilty or worrying you are going to break a wire or pop a bracket. Best of all, you only have to visit our office once every 6-8 weeks to make sure treatment is on track. Just wear your aligners as directed, and enjoy a beautiful, straight smile in as little as six months.
Invisalign FAQs
Are Invisalign aligners uncomfortable?
You’ve probably heard how uncomfortable traditional metal braces can be. Because your Invisalign aligners are made from a smooth plastic, you won’t have to endure any wires poking and cutting up your lips and inside your mouth. Your mouth may be a bit sore while you’re adjusting to each new set, but after a few days, the discomfort should subside. One way you can avoid your new aligners making you uncomfortable is by switching to your new aligners right before you go to bed, so you sleep through the short adjustment period. You can also contact us if you’re having trouble adjusting.
How often will I need to visit my dentist during my treatment?
Unlike traditional orthodontic appointments, you will be able to squeeze your Invisalign appointment into your lunch break. Typically, we’ll occupy less than 30 minutes of your time, and you’ll only need to stop by every couple of weeks to pick up your new set of aligners.
How should I take care of my aligners?
Taking care of your aligners isn’t as bad as it may sound. Because they’re removable, they’re easy to keep clean and clear. You can either use a special kit from Invisalign to help sterilize your aligners or clear antibacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clear them of lingering bacteria, food particles, and accumulated plaque.
It’s important to do this regularly to keep them from getting cloudy and prevent the transfer of plaque and bacteria to your mouth. Remember to never eat or drink beverages other than water with your aligners in, because it could damage them and set back your treatment time.
What do I do if my aligners get damaged or I lose a set?
If you lose your trays or accidentally damage them, it’s best not to put them back in your mouth. Instead, call us and let us know what has happened. We may suggest either moving to the next set of aligners in your treatment or for you to temporarily start wearing your previous set. If we decide they need to be replaced, we’ll order a new set for you so you can stay on your treatment timeline.
Will I need to wear a retainer after my treatment?
Just like with any other orthodontic treatment, you will need to wear a retainer after Invisalign in Farmington. If you don’t, your teeth may gradually shift back into their original positions and you may need to undergo treatment for a second time. To avoid this, it’s best to wear your retainer as specified by our team of professionals following your treatment. Later on, you could be able to just wear your retainer while you sleep. Either way, the best way to maintain your new straightened smile is to follow post-treatment instructions from Dr. Cole.