Gone forever are the days of evident and bulky metal braces, thanks to recent advances in orthodontic technology. Today’s braces feature small, sleek, and comfortable brackets, that may even straighten your teeth more quickly. Despite these improvements in shape, size, and even color, you may still be unsure about using the to straighten your smile. You may have started seeking the truth about Invisalign and how this excellent option for improving your oral health works.
At Krieger Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer Invisalign clear aligners as an alternative to traditional braces. This system is truly innovative because it provides beautiful results without brackets, wires, or bands. Unlike braces, which have a long history of successful use within the field of orthodontics, Invisalign has only been around for about twenty years. While most people have heard the name “Invisalign” before, they might not know the specifics of how the aligners can correct orthodontic issues. To learn more about precisely what you can expect from the Invisalign system, keep reading below!
What is Invisalign?
The basic ideas behind Invisalign clear aligners have been around for a while. For instance, orthodontists have used retainers that fit over the teeth for many years. But starting in the 1990s, Invisalign started using unique software and technology to move crooked and misaligned teeth in stages using nothing more than a series of customized aligners. At the end of each step, patients replace their current aligner with the next in the series to keep up with the teeth’ movement. This will usually be every 1-2 weeks, but the exact time frame depends on each patient’s treatment plan.
In its earlier days, Invisalign was used only for simple spacing issues or very mild crowding. Once orthodontists began to realize its potential, the aligners were redesigned to efficiently move teeth in most mild to moderate cases. If you carefully follow instructions, Invisalign aligners can be just as effective as traditional braces. If you’re still unsure, just ask the 7 million people who have already used Invisalign to get the smile of your dreams.
Does Invisalign treatment take longer than braces?
For any orthodontic treatment to work, you have to commit to following all of our team’s instructions. Compliance is extra important with Invisalign treatment. That’s because traditional braces do a lot of the heavy lifting since they’re attached to your teeth. Invisalign aligners are removable, so you’re responsible for wearing the aligners 20-22 hours a day during your treatment. Patients who neglect to do so won’t see the results they desire and may face longer treatment times in general.
We’re often asked how long a patient will need orthodontic treatment, but the truth is, there’s no “one size fits all” answer as to that. Every case is different, and each patient will respond to treatment in their own way. In general, however, most people will wear Invisalign aligners for anywhere from 9–15 months, with 18–30 aligners typically used throughout the treatment. This is actually slightly faster than the average time spent in braces!
Does Invisalign cost more than braces?
The cost of any treatment will be determined by a variety of factors. Comparatively speaking, Invisalign tends to cost about the same as traditional braces.
Dr. Krieger is committed to providing high-quality, affordable orthodontic care to patients of all ages in Lewisville and the surrounding communities. We offer interest-free payment plans after an initial down payment at the beginning of your treatment and accept payment through third-party financing companies. Also, we’ll file on your behalf if you have dental insurance that covers orthodontics. A better smile is always in the budget with Krieger Orthodontics!
What advantages does Invisalign have over traditional braces?
The most important advantage? The freedom and flexibility of being able to remove your appliances. Consider food restrictions. For many patients, one of the toughest parts of treatment is giving up some of their favorite foods to keep their braces safe. They must avoid anything crunchy or chewy, which eliminates several popular foods and snacks. With Invisalign, this isn’t an issue! The aligners are simply taken out before eating, then put back in when the patient is done. Not having any food restrictions makes the treatment process a lot more fun!
Removable aligners also make it easier to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing around wires, brackets, and bands can be frustrating and time-consuming, but Invisalign aligners are removed before brushing and flossing as usual. Caring for the aligners themselves is a breeze, too! There are special kits designed to clean them, or they can be gently brushed using toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
Without any wires or brackets to get in the way, Invisalign’s removable aligners are great for athletes and musicians who play certain instruments. And since they can be removed for short periods, they’re also perfect for any special event when a patient wants their natural smile to shine through, such as prom, weddings, or even senior pictures.
Is Invisalign recommended for everyone?
Not every smile is an excellent fit for Invisalign. It works best for teen and adult patients who have mild to moderate oral issues. Complex or severe cases may require more precise tooth control than a removable aligner can achieve. When you schedule your free consultation with Dr. Krieger, he’ll be able to determine if Invisalign is a good fit for you, or if you would be better served by a more traditional method of treatment. In many cases, patients can choose between braces and Invisalign aligners!
What happens once Invisalign treatment is complete?
Whatever method of orthodontic treatment a patient chooses, your mouth will remember where your teeth used to be. Your teeth will eventually drift towards their former positions if you don’t do anything to stop them. That’s why retainers are an essential part of achieving long-lasting results! Our office will provide you with a retainer once your treatment is complete. Wearing this retainer exactly as directed by Dr. Krieger will help keep your newly straightened smiles in place for years to come.
Find the perfect smile for you at Krieger Orthodontics
As our most popular alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign‘s innovative aligner system continues to change the way people view orthodontic treatment. To learn more about the incredible things Dr. Krieger can do for your smile with Invisalign, get in touch with us today to schedule a FREE consultation!
