Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment option for many of our patients. While most people have heard of Invisalign, not everyone is familiar with how it works or what treatment entails. If you're thinking about choosing Invisalign to straighten your teeth, here's what you should know.
What Is Invisalign?
Orthodontic braces, which use brackets and wires to push and pull teeth into alignment, were once the sole option to straighten teeth. Invisalign uses an entirely different treatment approach by swapping brackets and wires for clear plastic aligners.
The Invisalign process involves wearing a series of aligners for two weeks at a time. These aligners will be custom-made for you by Dr. Massiah, with small differences in each set that gradually bring you closer to your beautiful new smile. Although Invisalign isn't right for everyone, advances in the SmartTrack material and aligner technology mean that Invisalign can now address a wide range of bite issues just as effectively as traditional metal braces.
How Invisalign Works
Your consultation is the first step in Invisalign treatment. We'll make sure the system is a good fit for you during this visit and take x-rays, photos, and digital impressions so we can create a 3D model of your smile on our computer. This model will help Dr. Massiah plan your treatment, design your aligners, and let you see a preview of how your smile will look once your treatment is complete.
Your treatment plan will be sent to Invisalign, which will make your custom aligners. In some circumstances, attachments (known as "buttons") are bonded to your teeth to aid movement. You'll wear your aligners in a set order for two weeks at a time, or as recommended by Dr. Massiah.
The removable nature of Invisalign aligners distinguishes them from braces. This is an advantage in a number of ways: it allows you to eat all of your favorite foods while also making brushing and flossing a breeze. However, braces are permanently attached to your teeth to straighten them all day long, whereas Invisalign aligners only work when you wear them. Although Invisalign recommends wearing your aligners for at least 20 hours each day, we suggest wearing them all day except when you're eating, drinking something other than water, brushing, or flossing your teeth.
You'll come to our office every 6 weeks so Dr. Massiah can monitor your treatment and make sure it's on the right track. Once you've gone through each set of aligners, you'll be given a set of Vivera retainers to maintain your beautiful new smile. Like your aligners, these retainers are made with transparent plastic, but the material is stronger and more durable. With proper care and maintenance, Vivera aligners can last for about 2 years before needing to be replaced.
Learn More About Invisalign
Do you have questions about how Invisalign works? Wondering if it’s the right fit for your needs? If you’d like to schedule a consultation to learn more about Invisalign, contact us today at 212-222-5225 .