Traditional braces are the oldest method we have for straightening teeth, with a long track record of successfully treating a wide range of orthodontic issues. They’re not the only tool we have at our disposal, however! In addition to traditional braces, Chamberlain Family Orthodontics offers Invisalign clear aligners. This treatment option can correct various problems and help you achieve a beautifully aligned smile. Keep reading below to learn how Invisalign works to give you long-lasting results you’ll love!
What is the Invisalign Clear Aligner System?
To understand how Invisalign works, it helps to know a bit about fixed and removable appliances. Braces are a fixed appliance, which means the brackets are attached directly to the surface of the teeth. Invisalign aligners are removable appliances. They use small tooth-colored shapes that are attached to the teeth during treatment, but the aligners themselves can be removed.
While both fixed and removable appliances apply gentle force to move the teeth over time, Invisalign aligners don’t use any brackets, bands, or wires to do so. They’re made of a patented SmartTrack material that offers better control, comfort, and predictability. This thermoplastic resin is strong enough to move teeth into their new positions, but comfortable enough to wear for an extended period.
To begin the Invisalign process, Dr. Chamberlain will create a customized treatment plan for you based on a 3D model of your bite, tailoring each tooth movement to your specific bite issues and treatment goals. This will give you highly personalized results you’ll love! Each aligner moves the teeth towards the final goal Dr. Chamberlain has designed. Invisalign patients are instructed to switch each aligner out for the next trays in the series every 1-2 weeks as treatment progresses.
There’s a reason Invisalign is the most popular alternative to traditional braces. There are many benefits to this clear aligner system! Take food restrictions, for example. To protect their appliances, patients in braces need to avoid any food that is crunchy or chewy throughout the orthodontic process. While all that hard work is worth it in the end, it can be frustrating to have to give up some of your favorite meals and snacks during treatment. There are no food restrictions with Invisalign! The aligners are designed to be removed at mealtimes, so you can eat and drink all the same things you normally would.
Being able to remove the aligners makes it easy to take care of your teeth and gums, too. Brushing and flossing with traditional braces can come with a bit of a learning curve, but Invisalign aligners allow you to continue with your usual dental hygiene routine.
Patients love the freedom and flexibility that come with these clear aligners! There are no broken brackets or pokey wires to worry about, which means there are also fewer emergencies. Because follow-up visits are every 8-12 weeks, there are fewer total appointments. That makes Invisalign a great option for families with busy schedules!
Our practice is proud to offer Invisalign First for Phase I treatment in children along with Invisalign Teen and Invisalign for adults. We also have touch-up and targeted treatment for front teeth available with Invisalign aligners.
Treatment Times with Invisalign
Total treatment times will always vary from person to person, as every smile is unique and each patient responds to treatment in their own way. However, treatment times may be slightly faster with Invisalign compared to metal braces thanks to the precision involved in digital treatment planning! On average, most patients will need anywhere from 3-6 months to complete minor movements and up to 24-30 months for complex cases. When our team goes over the details of your personalized plan with you, we’ll be able to give you an estimate of how long your treatment is likely to take. You’ll even be able to get a peek at what your new smile will look like with our iTero Smile Simulation!
Find the Right Fit for You with Chamberlain Family Orthodontics
At Chamberlain Family Orthodontics, our expert team is committed to helping you find the treatment option that’s best for your unique smile. To learn more about how Invisalign can meet your orthodontic needs, click here to schedule a FREE in-office or virtual consultation!
