Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear, custom-made aligners with advanced technology to align a patient’s smile. They are designed in accordance with computer-generated images of the patient’s original teeth and with physical impressions taken of their mouth. Unlike traditional braces that use fixed wires to shift teeth from one position to another, the clear aligners of an Invisalign treatment gradually moves the teeth to a designated, healthier place. This process is repeated this until the final results are achieved.
What’s the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces?
Both braces and Invisalign are recommended in to improve a patient’s smile. They each produce a straighter, aesthetically enhanced smile using different techniques and help improve a patient’s overall oral health. Traditional braces have been in the market for a long time. Technological advances have created more choices, such as clear and lingual braces, but one of the most popular advancements has been Invisalign.
How Does Invisalign Technology Work?
Your SW Calgary dentist will carefully explain how the treatment works during a consultation appointment. In summary, the removable aligners are provided according to the course of treatment the dentist has designed. They must be worn for at least 20 hours per day and, during this time, will be secured onto the teeth by tooth-colored attachments. The aligners are fabricated to gradually change the position of your teeth, and the trays will be replaced periodically to ensure the continuation the smooth alignment of your smile.
Although Invisalign has become a highly sought after option, as with any treatment, it requires research and has both benefits and disadvantages.
Benefits of Invisalign
There are many advantages to getting Invisalign in SW Calgary; therefore, they have become wildly popular amongst patients. The pros of the clear aligners include:
Transparent style: Invisalign aligners are created with clear, BPA-free plastic that gives them an extremely subtle look. When a patient is wearing them, they are barely noticeable, meaning they won’t interfere with the aesthetics of one’s smile. They are ideal for adolescents and adults who may feel self-conscious about undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Convenient: Invisalign aligners are removable and can be taken off when necessary as long as patients are following the recommended guidelines for use. You will be able to eat and drink like normal by removing your Invisalign for the meal duration. However, to achieve the best results, patients should ensure they wear their Invisalign for 20 to 22 hours a day.
Quick results: The process of Invisalign is typically shorter than traditional orthodontic treatments. The way the aligners work allows most patients to only wear the trays for 6 to 18 months, whereas braces have an average treatment time of 2 years. Keep in mind that each case is unique, and when visiting a dentist near you for a consultation, feel free to ask questions about the length of your treatment.
Disadvantages of Clear Aligners
Consistency: Patients will be responsible for how quickly and effectively the aligners work based on how well they follow instructions.
Cost: Invisalign may be more costly than traditional treatments and may require regular checkups with your Calgary dentist to ensure the aligners are working correctly and for tray replacements.
Staining and additional cleaning: Without proper care, the aligners can stain easily. Patients should avoid drinks such as coffee, tea, and sodas during treatment. If you do drink these, be sure to remove your aligners for a short period of time. In addition, patients will need to follow through with their hygiene routine after every meal to ensure no leftover bacteria builds up inside the aligners and creates further dental issues.
How Effective is the Treatment?
Recent research has shown that Invisalign effectively corrects mild to moderate dental issues with success. However, the effectiveness of the aligners depends not only on the dentist but also on the patient’s cooperation. To achieve the best results, ensure you wear and care for your Invisalign according to a dentist’s recommendation.
At Bow Trail Dental, we offer various services to help enhance your smile, including Invisalign near you. To schedule a consultation, contact our friendly staff today. We will be happy to help you achieve your dental goals!