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What is Invisalign and What Are the Benefits?

September 8, 2023
woman in the park putting in her invisalign aligners

In a healthy mouth, teeth are aligned with each other. When they are misaligned, there can be several problems that arise. Misaligned teeth are caused by various factors such as genetics, trauma, or developmental problems. These factors can cause one or more teeth to shift from their original position in the mouth.
Correcting your teeth alignment problem is crucial to your appearance and jaw health. Several treatments, like metal braces, can be used to align your teeth. However, if you do not like the idea of metal wires on your teeth, getting Invisalign aligners near you will be a great option.

What are Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign is a clear aligner used to straighten and reposition the teeth. It is made of a series of aligners placed over the teeth and gradually moved into place.

Invisalign is a less invasive way to straighten teeth without going through the hassle and cost of braces. It is an alternative to traditional metal braces, which can be hard on the teeth and cause discomfort or breakage.

The Invisalign process takes about six months and includes visits to the dentist for adjustments every two weeks.

How is the Invisalign Treatment Done?

Getting Orthodontics in Houston, including Invisalign, requires three phases— mapping, treatment phase, and retention.

  • Mapping

The Invisalign treatment procedure starts with a consultation where the doctor takes an impression of your teeth and creates a custom-made set of aligners. The dentist will use a 3D digital scanner to create precise images of the jaw to create the aligners.

  • Treatment phase

After you have received your customized aligners from the dentist, you will need the aligners for 22 hours a day for two weeks. You will also be required to visit an Invisalign provider who will help you schedule appointments for follow-up visits. The provider will also help make adjustments to your aligners as needed throughout the treatment process.

  • Retention phase

The retention phase is done immediately after the orthodontic treatment. The dentist will give you a removable retainer that helps retain the new position and prevent the teeth from reverting.

How Are Invisalign Aligners Different From Traditional Aligners?

Traditional aligners are becoming less popular as they have many limitations. Metal braces are fixed on the teeth using wire metals. But, this can be an inconvenience for some people because it can be uncomfortable.

Invisalign is a clear plastic appliance worn over the teeth and gums to straighten your teeth without a fixed brace. It can be removed for eating, brushing, and sleeping.

Invisalign has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional aligners because it has many advantages, such as:

  • More comfortable: Invisalign is made of clear plastic, which makes them more comfortable than metal or ceramic braces
  • More hygienic: Traditional aligners can cause food particles and bacteria to build upon them, which leads to bad breath

The traditional braces are recommended if you have severe dental malocclusion that cannot be corrected by the Invisalign.

What are the Benefits of Invisalign?

Invisalign has many benefits, such as being removable, less invasive, and affordable. It also has a shorter treatment time than other orthodontic appliances like metal braces or traditional dental braces.

Invisalign can help you avoid metal brackets, wires, and metal screws. It also offers a better fit and allows you to eat what you want as long as you remove the aligners while eating.

What Are the Care Tips for Invisalign Aligners?

The Invisalign aligners require high levels of hygiene and discipline for them to be successful.

  • Brush and rinse the aligners every day and before putting them on
  • Use lukewarm or cold water to rinse and never hot because it can change the shape of the aligners
  • Store the Invisalign aligners in denture cleaner or water to keep them moist
  • Ensure you remove the aligners before you eat or drink to ensure they are not discolored.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Blush Dental Orthodontics & Implants for more information about Invisalign treatment and how it works.