Invisalign® vs BracesWhat Are the Benefits of Invisalign?Invisalign offers several benefits over traditional braces and has changed the way people view teeth realignment. The most recognized benefit is that Invisalign is discrete and unnoticeable to most people when you smile and talk. Traditional braces use a metal framework to help align your teeth. If you wear braces, they are the first thing people notice when you smile. In contrast, Invisalign uses a clear covering that pushes your teeth into place over time. Invisalign aligners are also removable, so you can take them out while you eat or brush your teeth. This avoids staining and prevents food from becoming stuck, which is common with traditional braces. Since Invisalign aligners completely cover your teeth, you will not have to worry about cutting your mouth. Braces can often cause minor cuts and scrapes along the tongue and sides of the mouth, which can be both annoying and painful. Another benefit of Invisalign is that they deliver results quicker than braces. Invisalign only takes an average of six to eight months from start to finish, while traditional braces must be worn anywhere from 18 months to three years. Both require you to wear a retainer afterwards, although you must pay extra for a clear retainer when you wear traditional braces. What Is the Process of Invisalign?When you come in for your first Invisalign appointment, our staff uses an iTero Element scanner to take a precise 3D digital scan of your teeth. This allows us to create a custom treatment plan for your Invisalign journey. We will provide you with the cost of your treatment, the treatment plan, an estimated timeline, a schedule for your follow-up appointments, and instructions on how to wear your Invisalign aligners as well as how to take care of them. When you receive your first set of aligners, we will explain how long you should wear each one. One aligner is typically worn for one to two weeks, which is enough to move your teeth for the next aligner. We will have you come in every six to eight weeks to schedule a checkup and to provide you with your next set of aligners. It is important to wear your aligners all day every day and only remove them when eating, drinking anything other than water, or brushing your teeth. Failure to wear your aligners may delay your results. It is also important to brush your aligners with your toothbrush after brushing your teeth before you put the aligners back in your mouth. If you are looking for an alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign may be the perfect fit for you. At Sylvan Heights Dental, our staff can provide you with a full treatment plan so you can begin your journey to straighter teeth. Give us a call today (503) 297-1471 to schedule an appointment. |