The Invisalign system is a revolutionary new alternative to traditional braces. Offering comfort, convenience and virtual invisibility during treatment the Invisalign system uses a series of clear, custom molded aligners to slowly move the teeth to their desired position.
The Invisalign system is used to successfully treat a wide variety of conditions including crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, overbites, underbites and cross bites. Since the aligners are practically invisible the embarrassment that comes with metal braces is eliminated. And because they are removable, you can take them out to eat and to brush and floss thereby allowing you to maintain your oral health much easier. Although treatment time varies considerably depending upon how much movement is necessary to achieve the desired results Invisalign aligners can often reposition teeth in about a year or less.
Treatment Time
Varies with the amount of tooth movement required. Typical treatment plan is 12-18 months. Requires follow-up visits every 6 weeks for a new aligner.
Patient Maintenance
Remove aligners for eating, brushing and flossing. Aligners are maintained by brushing thoroughly with normal toothbrush and toothpaste.
Results of Treatment
Straightened teeth Suited mainly for a vast majority of adults and for adolescents who have their permanent teeth.
Average Range of Treatment Life Expectancy
Permanent, may require the use of a night time retainer after treatment is concluded.
Cost
Varies, dependent upon amount of tooth movement required and number of aligners required.
Advantages
- Invisible, so no one can tell you are straightening your teeth.
- Removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment.
- More comfortable than traditional braces.
- Less time in the office for adjustments.
- Oral hygiene is improved.
Disadvantages
- Not appropriate for children.
- Treatment is dependent upon you, the patient, wearing the aligners.
- Designed for less complex orthodontic needs.
- May temporarily affect your speech