Learn About Invisalign

Invisalign straightens teeth with the use of clear aligners. These aligners are provided in tray form. Each individual tray is customized to gradually move the patient’s teeth into the right positions. Patients who adhere to the dentist or orthodontist’s plan for Invisalign clear aligners and switch out trays at the right time will find their teeth straighten and also develop the proper spacing. Let’s take a closer look at what Invisalign clear aligners are all about.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners are comprised of plastic that is BPA-free. These aligners really are that much more comfortable than conventional metal braces. Such personalized translucent aligners straighten teeth and create a lovely smile. The dentist or orthodontist will provide an in-depth consultation to discuss your unique smile and the potential use of Invisalign clear aligners so you can get a sense of the potential results.

Candidacy for Invisalign

There is a common misconception that solely tweens and teens can benefit from Invisalign clear aligners. However, teens and adults enjoy amazing results after using Invisalign. These translucent aligners close those ugly gaps in between teeth, straighten teeth, correct bite problems, and even help with overcrowded teeth. If you have any of these problems, meet with our dentist so an exam and x-rays can be performed. We will discuss Invisalign in the context of your oral health problems and determine if you are a good candidate.

A Customized Treatment Plan

The clear Invisalign aligners created for your specific teeth will not be the same as the ones used for another individual who has improperly spaced teeth, crooked teeth, or a bite problem. Our Dana Point dentist, Dr. Jeff Kindseth, DDS, will use the dental exam along with the x-rays and a three-dimensional model of your teeth to tailor an Invisalign treatment plan specifically for you. This information is used to make a fully personalized set of Invisalign aligners unique to your mouth. The three-dimensional model of your teeth also makes it that much easier to observe how Invisalign gradually corrects your orthodontic problems.

An Inside Look at the Invisalign Process

Once your initial set of Invisalign aligners are made following the exam, x-rays, and modeling, the dentist will check to ensure it is the proper fit. If any adjustments are necessary, the dentist will make them. Ideally, the aligners will be worn for 22 hours or more per day. You can remove your clear aligners to eat, brush, floss, chew gum, etc. Unlike braces, Invisalign clear aligners can be removed whenever desired. Thankfully, these clear aligners are comfortable so there is no need to worry about adjusting them, taking them out for relief, or making other alterations as is often required with comparably annoying braces. Simply add the aligners over your teeth, wear them for two weeks, switch them out for the next clear aligners and continue the process.

The initial set of aligners will fit quite tightly as they will gradually move your teeth into the optimal positions in your mouth. The aligners will gradually feel a bit looser. However, you must wait two full weeks before switching out the old aligner for a new one. Otherwise, your teeth and gums will not have enough time to adjust to reach the proper positions. Resist the temptation to take out your aligner after a couple of hours, continue wearing your aligners 22 hours a day for two full weeks and you will find your teeth move into the right positions in due time.

The Dentist is Here to Help

Most people are aware that part of the problem with braces is they require subsequent visits for modifications, adjustments, and other alterations. However, Invisalign does not require nearly as much ongoing maintenance. Invisalign clear aligners will work their magic as long as you abide by the aligner schedule.

Meet with the dentist every month and a half for a checkup and you will rest easy knowing your aligners are working as designed and your teeth are gradually progressing into the right positions. The dentist will also use the 6-week checkups as an opportunity to determine if any adjustments are necessary or if your treatment plan should be amended.

Don’t Worry About Pain from Invisalign Aligners

Most patients who are candidates for teeth straightening solutions ask if there is any potential pain from Invisalign aligners. These aligners might cause slight discomfort, especially after a new tray is added to the teeth yet the pain will not be significant. The pressure applied by the aligners will subsequently fade, ensuring you do not feel pain or even moderate discomfort in the days ahead. However, if you feel pain, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance.

Invisalign Aligners Slightly Impact Speech

Perhaps the only meaningful caveat of note pertaining to Invisalign clear aligners is they might slightly affect your speech. Put on your initial aligner, start talking and you might notice a slight lisp. You will quickly adjust, slightly altering the enunciation process, and find speaking with aligners is actually quite easy. Give it a bit of practice and you will agree this is not a significant issue.

Clear Aligners Look Better and Work Quicker Than Metal Braces

Regular metal braces sometimes take upwards of several years to work. Invisalign works in a year’s time or less. As long as you abide by the schedule for wearing your trays, you will find they beautify your smile, possibly in a couple of months or less. An added bonus is the fact that onlookers won’t be able to tell you are wearing Invisalign aligners. You can confidently wear these transparent aligners at social events knowing no one will be able to tell you are using a teeth-straightening solution.

Schedule an Appointment with Jeff Kindseth, DDS

Contact us today at our Dana Point, California office to find out more about Invisalign clear aligners. You can schedule an appointment online or contact us by phone at (949) 569-5253 to schedule an appointment where our team will go over Invisalign more in-depth. Dr. Jeff Kindseth is an Invisalign Certified Dentist and he and his dental team can guide you through the Invisalign process to help you achieve your best smile.