How Does Invisalign® Work?
Heavy metal braces used to be the only means for straightening or fixing spacing issues between teeth. These cumbersome devices are anything but comfortable and easy to wear. The brackets occasionally scrape your gums, and avoiding delicious sticky foods like caramel and popcorn balls is essential. There’s an easier option–Invisalign®.
Invisalign® straightens and aligns your teeth using temporary plastic clear aligners. Your dentist will make models of your current teeth and ideal smile and send them to the lab. The dental lab creates your first set of aligners. They may be tight at first, but that’s the goal. They apply pressure to your teeth and gradually shift them into place. You will switch out aligners every two weeks over two years. Each set of retainers gets you one step closer to your desired smile.
Metal Braces vs Clear Aligners
Unlike conventional braces, Invisalign® is removable, so you can eat and drink whatever you like. You don’t need to avoid certain foods; remove the aligners before you eat and pop them back in when you’re done. Plus, cleaning your teeth and the retainer is easier when you can remove it from your mouth. You can brush and floss your teeth without working around the brackets and wires. It’s important to note that you must wear the device for at least 20-22 hours a day to get desired results.
Invisalign® is significantly more comfortable. The wires in traditional braces often scratch the inside of your mouth. Additionally, metal braces are tightened every 4-6 weeks, and the pressure can leave your teeth sore for a few days. Invisalign® is made of plastic, creating less pressure on your teeth.
Invisalign® is less noticeable than traditional braces. For those worried about braces affecting their appearance, Invisalign is a great alternative. The plastic is clear and hardly noticeable.
Cleaning your Retainers
Keeping your retainer clean and bacteria-free is critical to your oral health. In addition to rinsing it before and after you eat, it’s important to soak your retainer in a cleaning solution for a few minutes daily. There are many options on the market. Additionally, you should brush your retainer. In the morning and the evening, while you’re brushing your teeth, take a few extra minutes to brush your retainer with your toothbrush and toothpaste that includes fluoride.
At Boggs Dentistry, we understand that every smile is unique, and we tailor our Invisalign® treatments to meet each patient’s needs and goals. Whether you’re dealing with crowded teeth, gaps, or misalignment, Invisalign® can provide a clear path to a more confident smile. Are you interested in learning how Invisalign® can transform your smile? Contact us today to learn more about our Invisalign® services and to schedule your consultation. Let us help you achieve the beautiful, straight teeth you’ve always wanted.
