The Invisalign way to straighten teeth

Less than 20 years ago, the only orthodontic method to correct the alignment of teeth was through braces. Nowadays, with our advanced technology, Invisalign has become a very effective alternative and is gaining popularity. According to Align Technology, the company that makes Invisalign, there are more than three million people wearing Invisalign, and that number is continuing to grow. For those of you who are not quite familiar with Invisalign, here is how it works.

Invisalign use a series of trays and sometimes elastics to guide your teeth to their final position. Invisalign is a good option for those who do not want to bring attention to their teeth during orthodontic treatment. It is also a good option for busy adults who travel a lot, who are away from home for school, and who have to do a lot of public speaking. Invisalign aligners cut down risk factors such as pokey wires, loose brackets, loose bands and the discomfort from wearing braces.

Consultation with an Invisalign provider:

To achieve a beautiful smile through Invisalign, you need to choose a provider who has received specialized training and who has experience using Invisalign. After all, Invisalign is just a material. Just as with a bucket of good paint, you need a good painter to create a masterpiece. Similarly, with Invisalign, you need a doctor to design, monitor and make adjustments to your case in order to achieve the best results.

At Care Orthodontics, Dr. Phan treats many Invisalign patients. She can give you recommendations on whether or not your case should be corrected with Invisalign or advise you on any special conditions to watch out for while going through Invisalign treatment.

Creating a customized treatment plan:

Once you get started with treatment, Dr. Phan will take X-rays and impressions to create 3D images of your teeth. Based on her specific treatment plan, she will design the movements for your teeth and work with the lab technician to get the custom trays generated. A 3D video will demonstrate how your teeth will move, the end results and an estimated treatment time.

Arrival and delivery of your trays:

Once the custom trays are created, they will be sent to Dr. Phan's office to begin treatment. Invisalign should be worn 22 hours a day, except to eat, drink, brush and floss. In general, you will replace the trays every 10 to 14 days during the treatment plan. These trays will move your teeth into the proper alignment and bite. You will come into the office every few months to pick up more trays and for Dr. Phan to monitor your treatment results.

Touch-up trays:

When you finish with your custom trays, Dr. Phan will determine if your bite needs retainers or more touch up trays. Sometimes one or a few teeth move slower than expected and may need more trays to add needed movement.

Retainers to reserve a beautiful smile:

Once you complete your smile transformation then it's time to enjoy your beautiful smile for a lifetime. At the end of treatment, Dr. Phan will order your retainers to ensure that your teeth settle into this new position. Just remember to wear them as recommended so that your teeth do not move.

It seems like there is a lot of work involved in creating a beautiful smile…and there is. But at the end of the day, it's all worth it. You get to keep your smile for the rest of your life. So smile confidently, you earned it!

If you cannot decide whether braces or Invisalign is right for you, give our office a call to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Nancy Phan at www.CareOrthodontics.com.