Straight Talk About Invisalign

If you have crooked teeth, you’re probably considering Invisalign, an orthodontic system that straightens teeth sans metal. Who doesn’t want removable and almost “invisible” braces? Invisalign is a great option for many patients, and the best alternative to regular braces in some cases, but they’re not for everyone. Let’s find out why.

The Invisalign Process

After the consultation, your dentist will take detailed images and impressions of your mouth and make a teeth straightening plan. This plan maps out the progress of movement from position one (your teeth’s current position) to the final position (straight teeth). Your dentist will then send these records to the Invisalign company that manufactures the custom aligners.

Your Lincroft dentists work closely with the Invisalign technicians to fine tune the straightening plan several times and make sure the aligners work properly. You’ll receive your first set of aligners about four weeks after the impressions are taken. Each aligner is to be worn for two weeks at a time. Although you may not notice it, your teeth will be slightly straighter every day. The goal is to move the teeth to fit the aligner, slowly and gently.

Different Cases

Majority of people who get Invisalign have crowded front teeth. To make room for the other teeth, the Invisalign trays are designed to a) expand the back teeth slightly, b) move the front teeth forward, or c) file between some of the teeth to make them thinner.

Other patients may need something called attachments, tooth-colored plastic bumps that are bonded to the tooth’s surface. These brackets keep the aligner in place and apply extra pressure for more efficient movement. Depending on your teeth’s condition, your aligners may not appear that “invisible.” Some people may also need teeth reduction, while others need rubber bands and attachments that make it harder to pop the aligner on and off.

Talk to your Lincroft Invisalign specialists today to determine the best method for straightening your teeth. Call 732-352-3903or click here to make an appointment.