Invisalign treatment consists of tray-like aligners made from transparent thermoplastic that is dental-grade. They move teeth by applying pressure on them in the required direction in a controlled manner. The best feature of Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible and aesthetically pleasing.
Almost anyone is a candidate for Invisalign! The aligners are removable and nearly invisible, which means you can straighten your teeth without most people knowing about it.
If you're interested in orthodontic treatment with Invisalign in Santa Clara, CA, call Rivermark Dental. Dr. Lee will examine your smile and determine if Invisalign is right for you. If not, Dr. Lee will suggest other treatment options that can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
Customized treatment plan: It is easiest to begin the Invisalign process at your initial consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, our dentist will take x-rays and perform an exam to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. If you are, they will discuss the specifics of your treatment and answer any questions you have. They will take impressions of your teeth. These are used to create custom molds of your teeth and gums so your aligners will fit properly. Once these are completed, you will then be able to use your aligners at home for a period of several weeks at a time before switching to the next pair in the series.
Treatment time: With Invisalign, treatment times vary but are usually shorter than conventional braces. The average length of treatment is about a year, but this can vary depending on complexity. Of course, you will still need to wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time each day to achieve your desired results.
Clear and invisible braces are put on: The next step is to get your clear and invisible aligners. Once you get your set of aligners, wear them every day for at least 22 hours. The most convenient reason to use them is that they are easy to remove. Hence, you can take them off while you are eating, brushing, and flossing.
Get a new set of aligners every two weeks: Based on your treatment plan, Dr. Lee will give you a new set of aligners every two weeks. During each stage of your treatment plan, the dentist will concentrate on moving a different set of teeth.
Regular consultations: Your dentist will ask you to visit once every few weeks in order to evaluate and see how the treatment is progressing. If any changes are required, they will be made. It is also crucial for you to go for regular consultations once every six months after the treatment procedure to ensure that no problems crop up.
Maintain Hygiene: It is vital to maintain proper oral hygiene during and after the treatment. This ensures a healthier oral cavity and reduces the chances of developing cavities. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean both your aligner and natural teeth before re-inserting them into your mouth. In addition to regular cleanings, it's important to change your aligners every time that you eat or drink anything other than water.
If you experience any minor issues, such as discomfort or stiffness, with your first set of aligners, this is normal. As you adjust to your new aligners, these issues should dissipate. If your issues persist after wearing a new set of aligners for two weeks, call your dentist to schedule an appointment.
An alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign is a clear and removable plastic aligner that can be used to treat many of the same alignment problems as traditional braces. In addition to improving your smile's appearance, there are also other benefits to correcting your bite with orthodontic treatment. This is because your jaw alignment affects the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth, as well as how you eat and speak. When your teeth are crowded or crooked, this can impact your overall oral health and even your life expectancy.
Invisalign is a great alternative to metal braces because they are clear—no one will even know you are wearing them! They are also removable, so you can take them out to eat and brush your teeth. The smooth plastic aligners are also more comfortable than metal braces because they will not irritate the inside of your lips and cheeks.
If you're ready to begin the journey to a straighter smile, call our office at 408-988 7788 to schedule your consultation today! We are happy to answer any questions you have about Invisalign or your many other options for orthodontic treatment. We can't wait to help you reach your healthiest and most beautiful smile yet!