Invisalign Basics: Get to Know How This Treatment Differs from Braces
Before you decide that you will never have straight teeth, consider the options available. You do not have to have regular braces to get an appealing smile. Instead, think about Invisalign, which is much less obvious and just as effective as braces.
Some adults do not have the straight teeth they have always wanted,
but might think it is too late to wear braces. After all, such adults might have children who wear braces, and associate them with youth, so they assume they are too old to ever straighten their teeth. Fortunately, there is now a product that produces the same results as braces do, without looking like them. Find out more about Invisalign if the results sound appealing to you.
Invisalign is a product that straightens out each tooth individually using aligners, which are switched out about every two weeks. This treatment is custom made for your mouth, which means that it offers the best results possible. In fact, you can expect your dentist or orthodontist to take exact impressions of your teeth before creating this product, usually during an initial consultation. During this appointment, you may even be able to see what the result will look like, since most dentists offer a virtual representation. This allows you to decide whether you want to use Invisalign.
You will then receive anywhere from 20 to 30 aligners per arch, though the exact number varies depending on what your dentist thinks is best for you. You will be expected to wear these aligners as much as possible. In fact, the only time you should remove them is when you eat, drink, floss, or brush. However, you may also remove them for special occasions, as long as you wear them the majority of the time otherwise.
You will start to see a difference in your smile not long after you get Invisalign. The result is gradual, but you will likely see the difference most clearly at your appointments, when your orthodontist points it out. The best part is that many people will not even be able to tell that you are using this treatment, but they will soon notice your straighter teeth and more confident smile.
Aside from the fact that Invisalign is not nearly as obvious as braces, it has the added benefit of being removed occasionally, making it more like a retainer. Additionally, you will likely feel more comfortable during this treatment than you would if you wore regular metal braces, as those often stab the gums or lips while improving your smile. Invisalign features smooth edges that do not hurt or irritate the mouth. Overall, you should talk to your dentist as soon as possible to find out how this treatment can help you.
