How does Invisalign work?
The Invisalign system gently repositions your teeth using a series of custom-made clear trays that fit over your teeth. You wear each set of aligners for a week or two at a time for 20-22 hours a day, removing them to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. Each set of aligners applies just the right amount of pressure to your teeth to gently move them into their desired position.
Typically, you visit Dr. Wu every 6-8 weeks so she can check your progress and see how your teeth are moving.
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
If you have any of the following conditions, then you could be an ideal candidate for the Invisalign system:
- Overbite or underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Overcrowding of teeth
- Gaps between teeth
Invisalign clear aligners work well for adults and teenagers who desire straighter teeth without the hassle of metal braces or frequent visits to the orthodontist, as is common with traditional braces. As long as you’re willing to wear your teeth aligners during the day and at night, except for when you’re eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth, then you could be a good candidate for the convenience of the Invisalign system.
What are the advantages of Invisalign over braces?
There are so many benefits and advantages to using the Invisalign system over traditional metal braces to get straighter teeth. Some of these benefits include:
- No restrictions on what foods you can eat
- Easily brush, floss, and care for your teeth as you usually do
- Comfortable to wear
- No emergency visits to the orthodontist to repair broken wires or loose brackets
- Invisible so people might not even notice you’re wearing your aligners
- Easy to remove for special occasions like weddings or proms
Additionally, Invisalign clear aligners might actually straighten your teeth faster than traditional braces. It depends on your individual teeth and the severity of the problem you’re correcting, but on average Invisalign treatments work in just 12-18 months. And, you’ll begin seeing results in just a few weeks after starting with Invisalign.
Once you’ve reached the end of your treatment, Dr. Wu often recommends wearing retainers to prevent your teeth from gradually shifting out of position again. If that’s the case, you wear custom-made retainers for a short time after your Invisalign treatment.
To find out if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign clear aligners, call to schedule a consultation, or use the convenient online booking tool.
