Invisalign vs Braces![]() Everything You Need to Know About InvisalignInvisalign is made of clear plastic free of BPA and is much more comfortable than conventional metal braces. They are customized in a dental lab to perfectly fit your teeth and help straighten them in a shorter period than traditional metal braces. Individuals of any age, teenagers and adults alike, can benefit from these aligners. Invisalign can be used to close gaps in teeth and treat problems like overbites, underbites, open bites, and crossbites. They also realign overcrowded and misplaced teeth. When it is established that one requires Invisalign, the dentist assesses the teeth and oral cavity, and performs visual examinations accompanied by x-rays and 3D imaging models of the teeth to fashion a customized treatment procedure. The examination helps the dentist plan how the teeth need to move, and the time it will take to align them suitably. The examination also helps show the patient how the aligners will gradually make corrections to their teeth. Flossing and cleaning teeth and removing the aligners is pretty straightforward. After being custom-made in the lab, the Invisalign is fitted at the dentist while checking for fit and making modifications. The aligners should be worn throughout the day except while eating. Each tray of aligners are worn for two weeks before the fit is changed. They might feel tight at first but will loosen over some time. When they start to feel loose, you should not change them immediately to allow the teeth to adjust to the switch to prevent them from relapsing into the new position. Dental follow-up appointments should be made at least every six weeks to check the aligners and realignment progress. Check-ups also allow the dentist to determine whether modifications must be made to the aligners. One of the best advantages of Invisalign compared to traditional braces is that they are more comfortable. Treatment takes approximately a year but depends on each patient's situation. Caring for InvisalignIt is essential to clean your Invisalign before you wear them and brush them with a soft denture toothbrush using a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. It is important to brush and floss your teeth after each meal to remove any food debris from the teeth before putting your Invisalign aligner back into your mouth again. Invisalign is designed to last for two weeks before switching to the next tray of aligners. It is important to avoid grinding and clenching your teeth, or folding the aligners as they could warp. Visit us at Chicago Dental Esthetics or call us at (224) 341-5162 to make an appointment to find out if Invisalign is right for you. |