Oct
If you wanted straighter teeth in the past, your only option may have been uncomfortable and unsightly metal braces with brackets and wires. Today, the field of orthodontics has rapidly advanced, and products such as Invisalign clear aligners can transform your smile with comfort and discretion. Let’s learn more about why Invisalign may be your best option for straightening your teeth and whether it’s worth your money.
Invisalign is a treatment that uses ultra-thin clear aligners to gently and consistently use force to straighten your teeth. These discreet aligners are fully removable, and over time, they will progressively move your teeth to the correct alignment and position.
While Invisalign was initially designed to treat malocclusion (crooked teeth), these clear aligners can also be used to address any of these conditions:
When your dentist starts the Invisalign treatment process, they will take 3D images of your teeth. Using putty, they will then make a mold that will be used to create your aligners. The mold is then sent to a specialized lab, where technicians will construct your aligners using your mouth’s unique shape.
Invisalign aligners aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Because your aligners are made using the mold from your mouth, your process and aligners will be completely customized just for you.
While the entire Invisalign treatment process can take up to a year, this is about half the time required to straighten your teeth using metal braces.
If you ever had metal braces or know someone who did, you’re probably fully acquainted with the horror stories about eating popcorn, corn on the cob, hard candy, and more. Food invariably gets stuck with metal brackets and wires, causing much discomfort and difficulty cleaning. With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners to eat. This allows you to enjoy all of the foods you love.
One concern with metal braces is that they make it challenging to do a great job cleaning your teeth. Invisalign aligners are removed for brushing and flossing your teeth so you can fully clean your teeth and gums. Just be sure to promptly put the aligners back into your mouth because they need to be worn for at least 22 hours a day to be effective.
All oral appliances must be thoroughly cleaned, and that includes Invisalign clear aligners. Fortunately, caring for your aligners is a breeze. You can rinse them throughout the day as needed. However, once a day, they need a good cleaning. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush them gently—don’t use the same one you use to brush your teeth. You can also use clear liquid soap to remove food particles and debris.
Is Invisalign worth the money? Dr. Bridget Lervick of Edina, MN, can help you invest in yourself with Invisalign teeth straightening. The good news is that many dental insurance plans offer the same coverage for clear aligners as for metal braces. Call Grandview Center for Dentistry in Edina, Minnesota, today at (952) 955-4505 to find out more.
Dr. Bridget Lervick is a respected dentist in Edina, MN who has also practiced dentistry in South Dakota and Texas. Dr. Lervick earned her dental degree at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2010 and enjoys being back in the Twin Cities at her own practice now. Her patients trust her for general, cosmetic, orthodontic, and frenectomy treatments and more. A certified Invisalign® Provider, Dr. Lervick also maintains memberships in professional organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the International Association for Orthodontics, the Breathe Institute, and the Pankey Institute.