Throughout downtown Los Angeles and across the country, dental patients are discovering about the Invisalign treatment system to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. Many patients are intrigued by the clear alignment trays and the opportunity to avoid the appearance of braces. However, others are unsure about how the retainers work after Invisalign and if this treatment could work for them.
Determining if you’re a candidate for Invisalign can only be accomplished through a consultation with a dentist. Although some patients may have alignment issues that are too severe to be corrected with Invisalign, most patients will achieve the results they want without the appearance of metal braces.
The Invisalign system is essentially a series of clear alignment trays that gently shift the teeth into proper position. Each tray is worn for two weeks, moving the teeth a little bit with each progressive tray until the desired position has been reached. Patients using Invisalign avoid the pain and inconvenience of monthly tightening appointments that individuals with traditional braces must undergo. The treatment process is relatively painless, although some patients report feeling some tightness on the days immediately after changing to a new tray.
The aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day, but they can be removed for eating, brushing, and even the occasional important business meeting or social function. The exact length of treatment varies. On average, patients use the alignment trays for 12 months. The aligners are easy to use and easy to care for. Simply brushing them when you brush your teeth is a great way to keep them clean and free of bacteria.
Once you’ve achieved the smile you want, your dentist may recommend a retainer to keep your teeth in place. This may be a traditional retainer worn at night while you sleep, or a similar plastic retainer. Only your dentist can tell you for sure what your post-treatment care will require.
If you are ready to improve the appearance of your smile, call Downtown Dental to schedule an appointment. A year from now, you could have a brand new smile!
