What is Invisalign?

Invisalign are wearable aligner trays which help straighten your teeth discreetly. You may have heard them referenced as “invisible braces,” “clear braces,” “adult braces,” or “adult orthodontics” (since many adults enjoy the elusiveness of them). Clinical Research and orthodontic practices nationwide have proven that invisalign is effective, which is why 70% of all U.S. orthodontists are certified to treat patients with Invisalign.

All aligners are not alike. There are a lot of companies now making aligners and copying Invisalign technology, but Invisalign remains the best!

How Does Invisalign Teeth Straightening Work?

Our board certified orthodontist will first evaluate thoroughly and come up with a diagnosis and treatment plan. Then we would take digital scans of your teeth , x-rays, and photographs and send them to get produced. The scans go through a CT scan where a computer generates a 3-D replica. Technicians then use the computer model to fit the tray to each tooth individually and move them to their final desired position under direction from the orthodontist. A plastic resin aligner is manufactured for each step of the computer’s simulated progression and then sent to the orthodontist.

What is the Procedure for Invisalign Like?

No more messy impressions and molds! We use the latest technology to get a replica image of your mouth and design the patient’s overall treatment plan from the starting position of your teeth all the way to their final desired position.

You will begin treatment with the first of several sets of custom aligners, which you will wear in two-week increments. At the end of each two-week period, your teeth will be moved into position for the next set of aligners. During this process, we will schedule follow-up appointments every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. The length of time it will take to get the desired results will vary depending on the scale of the realignment, but usually averages between 12-18 months.

What Are The Advantages of Invisalign?

• Invisalign allows you to look good while also aligning your teeth. This is convenient for people who don’t feel comfortable with the appearance of wired braces.
• Invisalign is safe and easy to use. It doesn’t aggravate your teeth or gums as much as normal braces may.
• Easy removal makes it easier to keep aligners clean than traditional braces.
• The functionality and effectiveness of clear aligners has consistently advanced over recent years to the point where Invisalign is now the universal first choice among dental health professionals.

What Are The Disadvantages of Invisalign?

• Invisalign must be taken out each time you need to eat, drink, or brush your teeth.
• Clenching, grinding, or otherwise applying heavy pressure on the teeth can damage the invisible teeth aligners.
• While easy removal is an advantage of Invisalign, it also means that you need to be disciplined about wearing your aligners regularly.
• Invisalign can potentially cause throat problems as well as other conditions due to a reaction to the tray material.
• You should always consult with your dentist before you begin Invisalign treatment.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

Depending on the severity of the tooth adjustment required, some people will encounter more pain from Invisalign than others. Pain is usually most severe during your first few days with each new custom aligner. If you are experiencing a lot of pain, it may help to switch aligner sets at night to allow your teeth to adjust while you sleep. You may also want to take over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen every 4-6 hours during the first couple days of each two-week period.

Is Invisalign for You? Make an Appointment

If you would like to know more about Invisalign and whether it might be right for you, make an appointment with Beacon Dental Studio. Your board certified orthodontist will guide you through all the relevant information to help you make the right treatment decision. If you are in need of cosmetic dentistry services in the NYC area, then make an appointment online or call today.