Why Invisalign is the “clear” choice for straightening the teeth
Do you want straighter teeth but avoid talking to your dentist about it because you dread the idea of traditional braces? If so, you are not alone. Many New York, New York area men and women who have an imperfect smile may have thought about orthodontic treatment at some point. Fortunately, there are other ways to achieve proper dental arch alignment to avoid gaps and crooked teeth that don’t require unsightly metal appliances. Dr. Mary A. Taudel and her team at Park Avenue Dental may recommend to patients the benefits of an alternative solution called Invisalign.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign is a specialized treatment designed for clear teeth straightening within the dental arch for better alignment and improved bite. Instead of using brackets that are glued to the teeth and are connected by metal wires, Invisalign uses transparent aligner trays. Patients have an entire series of trays fabricated for them to help them achieve their new smile. The trays are worn for two weeks before the patient progresses to the next tray in their series. When worn for at least 20 hours a day, patients can achieve their desired results in the expected timeframe. Compliance is key!
What are the benefits of Invisalign orthodontic treatment?
Invisalign has several advantages that make it a popular treatment option for many patients. Invisalign:
- Is more comfortable than traditional braces
- Allows for a healthier smile as the trays can be removed for brushing and flossing
- Offers flexibility for patients when compared to conventional orthodontia
- Builds self-confidence even while realigning the smile
- Are more convenient and easier to use
- Is discreet, allowing patients to straighten their smile with practically invisible aligners
Invisalign FAQs
Invisalign aligners are made from a patented thermoplastic material called SmartTrack® that is free from latex, BPA, and BPS, making it safe for oral use. This unique material is specially crafted to provide comfort, flexibility, and ideal tooth movement. Its transparent nature means the aligners are virtually invisible and provide a discreet orthodontic experience for patients in New York, New York. The aligner’s durability ensures effective teeth straightening over time. Invisalign aligners combine innovation and comfort to revolutionize the orthodontic experience.
This depends on the patient’s orthodontic requirements and the severity of the issue being corrected. On average, treatment typically lasts between 6 to 18 months. However, a more complex case could necessitate longer treatment times. The length of treatment also depends on factors including regular wear of aligners, which is typically recommended to be 20 to 22 hours per day. Wearing your aligners as advised by your New York, New York dentist contributes to the effectiveness and timely completion of the Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign is incredibly popular because of its ability to correct a wide range of orthodontic issues. These include overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, overcrowded teeth, and gaps between teeth. Invisalign can also be prescribed to address minor misalignments and to improve overall dental alignment. This results in enhanced cosmetics and functionality for patients seeking discreet treatment options.
Simply rinse your aligners with clean, cool water after removal to prevent plaque from building up. Brush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap, avoiding hot water to prevent warping. Invisalign also offers cleaning crystals you can ask about. Once clean, store your aligners in their case while not in use and avoid exposing them to colored liquids or foods to prevent staining.
If you damage or lose one of your aligners, the first thing you want to do is to contact our office as soon as possible. Next, it is important not to let it stress you out. We will be able to assess the situation and provide you with next steps. This could include simply moving to the next set of aligners in your series or getting a replacement ordered. One important thing to note is that you should first speak to us for professional guidance before moving on to the next aligner. Once we have evaluated the situation, we will let you know if this is a proper next step. Until you are provided with the next steps, you will want to maintain oral hygiene and wear your previous aligner to prevent teeth from shifting while awaiting a replacement.
Yes, in theory. The realignment you can achieve with Invisalign is in line with the results you would achieve with traditional metal braces. However, just as with braces, you will likely need to wear a retainer following your treatment to keep your teeth in their new, proper alignment. Failing to do so could result in your teeth shifting back to their pre-treatment alignment and position. Each case is different, so the need for a retainer will be something you discuss with our team.
Are you considering Invisalign?
If you have desired a straighter smile but want to avoid traditional metal braces used by orthodontists, it is an excellent time to speak to Dr. Mary A. Taudel of Park Avenue Dental to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign orthodontics. Call the practice at (646) 588-1704 to book a consultation visit and initial evaluation with our team at 37 Park Avenue, Suite A. We are open to new and returning patients and families needing general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry.