Invisalign

If you are struggling with crooked teeth or bite issues, you may be considering braces. While traditional metal braces work very well, especially for significant dental issues, there are other options now. One of them is Invisalign.

Invisalign does not use unsightly brackets and wires to straighten your teeth. Instead, it uses clear aligners to fix alignment issues. This is a great option for teens and others who are self-conscious about their smile. With Invisalign, teeth straightening is done discreetly. The aligners are clear and invisible, so nobody has to know. 

Invisalign has its pros and cons, just like any other process. It’s important to be informed about how these clear aligners work so you can determine if they are the best choice for you or your child. 

Are you interested in Invisalign for yourself or your child? If so, the friendly team at Galleria Dental can determine if this orthodontic appliance is the right choice. This dental office offers services to patients of all ages. We have helped patients young and old straighten their teeth. Contact our office today.

Braces vs. Invisalign

The main difference between braces and Invisalign is the material used. Braces use metal, while Invisalign uses plastic. With braces, brackets are attached to each tooth. An archwire is then added to connect to each bracket. These wires put pressure on the teeth and cause them to move. Invisalign, on the other hand, uses a series of clear removable aligners. These aligners are created using computer software. They are worn most of the time – at least 23 hours a day. They gradually move teeth into place with each new set of aligners.

How Does Invisalign Work?

If you are a good candidate for Invisalign, the process starts with taking records. These records include impressions of your teeth, two X-rays and photographs of your teeth and face.

Once the dentist has those records, they will send them off to Invisalign with detailed instructions. These details help the technicians create your aligners so that your teeth can move as desired. They scan your impressions so that a 3D model of your teeth is in their computer. They also review the movements of the teeth. 

Once your aligners are ready, your dentist will let you know. Each set is worn for 2 weeks before using the next one. Each series of trays are created so that the teeth are slightly straighter than the previous tray. The causes pressure in the teeth, and they move to fit the tray. Your teeth will move slowly though– about 1/10mm per tray. 

Invisalign allows you to remove your set to eat, brush and floss. However, you’ll need to wear your aligners full time – at least 23 hours a day. Wearing your aligners will help the teeth move to their final position.

Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign offers many benefits. One of the biggest reasons why people choose Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. This makes them undetectable by others, so nobody will notice. 

Invisalign trays have no brackets or wires involved. Unlike braces, you won’t have to deal with sharp edges. These trays are much more comfortable, so you won’t have to deals with anything poking your cheeks, gums or tongue.

With Invisalign, keeping your teeth clean is much easier. You won’t have to brush in between brackets and wires. You take out your aligners to eat and brush, so teeth stay clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay.

Does Invisalign Work Better?

One method does not necessarily work better than the other. Simply put, it depends on your situation. Invisalign works differently from braces. Invisalign is good for less severe cases. If you have serious alignment issues, then traditional metal braces are a better choice. They are more effective and can move teeth more quickly. This is because metal braces can incorporate more bands and wires.

Invisalign, however, does have some advantages that make it better than braces. For example, braces tend to trap food in them, leading to tooth decay and cleaning issues. Invisalign aligners are removed when eating, so teeth are easier to clean. 

Contact Us

Discover if Invisalign is right for you! Contact our team today,