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Invisalign is perhaps the most effective and popular way to straighten your teeth without conventional braces. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, nearly invisible aligners made from comfortable and clear plastic material that fits gently over your teeth. If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, here are five things you should know before you get started.
Invisalign vs Braces
Most people are familiar with traditional metal braces and the benefits of correcting crooked teeth, but Invisalign offers a more discreet option. Invisalign’s clear aligners are nearly invisible in comparison to traditional braces and allow for more comfortable adjustments with less irritation. Invisalign also allows you to continue eating your favorite foods, unlike traditional braces which require you to avoid sticky and crunchy foods. In terms of duration, Invisalign aligners are usually worn for approximately one year while metal braces may need to be worn for two to three years.
Benefits of Invisalign
When compared to traditional braces, Invisalign offers a number of distinct benefits. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible when worn, which is often the most important factor for many patients. In addition, Invisalign has been proven to be more comfortable than metal braces since there are no poking wires or brackets and you don’t have to worry about mouth abrasions. Invisalign also makes it easier to keep teeth clean since you can remove the aligners for brushing and flossing.
Invisalign Cost
The cost of Invisalign depends on the severity of your orthodontic case. In general, Invisalign costs more than traditional metal braces. Invisalign also requires multiple visits to the dentist for progress check-ups and Invisalign aligners need to be replaced every two weeks, which adds to the cost. In addition, Invisalign is not covered by all insurance plans, so it’s important to check with your provider before starting Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign Treatment Process
The Invisalign process begins with a consultation at the dentist’s office. During your visit, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to Invisalign for custom aligners to be created. After the aligners are made, you’ll be instructed on how to wear them and when to switch aligners. Invisalign treatment typically takes about one year, but the exact duration of your treatment will depend on the complexity of your case.
Invisalign Maintenance
In order to ensure successful Invisalign treatment, you must maintain your Invisalign aligners as instructed by your dentist. Invisalign aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day and removed only when eating and brushing/flossing. In addition, it’s important to keep the Invisalign case clean and store them in a safe place when not in use.
Invisalign aligners should also be changed every two weeks, as instructed by your dentist.
Invisalign Cleaning
In order to keep Invisalign aligners clean and on track with their expected timeline, it’s important to brush and floss after each meal. In addition, Invisalign aligners can be cleaned by soaking them in Invisalign cleaning crystals or Invisalign Cleaning System and then brushing them with a soft brush.
Invisalign Follow-up Visits
In addition to daily Invisalign maintenance, it’s important to follow up with your dentist regularly during Invisalign treatment. Invisalign follow-up visits are typically scheduled every six to eight weeks and allow your dentist to monitor the progress of your Invisalign aligners. During these visits, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments and ensure that Invisalign is working as expected.
Invisalign Retention
Once Invisalign treatment is complete, it’s important to wear Invisalign retainers in order to maintain the results of Invisalign. Retainers are custom-made and must be worn as instructed by your dentist. In most cases, Invisalign retainers should be worn full-time for six months after Invisalign treatment is complete and then nightly for the remainder of your life.
Invisalign treatment is an effective, comfortable way to straighten teeth without metal braces. In addition to Invisalign aligners, Invisalign maintenance involves regular Invisalign cleanings, follow-up visits, and Invisalign retainers. With the right Invisalign maintenance, you can ensure successful Invisalign treatment and enjoy the benefits of straight teeth.
