To progressively and accurately straighten teeth, Invisalign® employs cutting-edge technologies, including computer modeling and computer-assisted manufacturing. Read on to learn more about this teeth-straightening option. The patient, as with any orthodontic therapy, plays an important part in the process. The quality and timeliness of your outcomes all depend on the patient's dedication to treatment instructions.
The following are some important recommendations to help patients achieve optimal outcomes from Invisalign treatment.
Getting used to changes in daily habits often takes time. Fortunately, many patients report being comfortable wearing the aligners after one to two weeks of consistent use. Consistent use means having them on for at least 22 hours each day. Patients should only take them out when eating, drinking, and brushing their teeth, and for no more than a total of 2 hours each day.
When each new pair of aligners fits securely over the teeth, the treatment is working as expected. On the other hand, deviating from full-time use may lead each aligner to fit poorly with time. This will need fresh impressions or scans and the remaking of the aligners in the future. Since this may prolong your treatment duration, it is advisable to wear the aligners as directed.
When each aligner tray fits precisely over the teeth before switching them, it is a sign of optimal Invisalign treatment. When there are air spaces between the teeth and the aligner, the aligners are not fitting properly, which means they are not working properly. For such gaps, patients can opt for "chewies," which are tiny cylindrical cushions composed of styrene copolymer, a plastic-like substance. Biting down on chewies for up to 10 minutes a few times a day can ensure the aligner sits snugly against the teeth, which will improve the chances of finishing treatment on schedule.
The Invisalign system comprises aligners and the attachments placed on some teeth to enhance the efficacy of the aligners. The attachment is a tiny tooth-colored dot of composite resin material. Since aligners are removable, they tend to slide during specific motions. Attachments function as an anchor in these cases to give the aligners a stronger hold on the teeth. The visibility of the attachments is determined by where they are put and how well the color matches the natural tooth color. However, they are typically hardly visible.
Patients already have the added convenience of oral hygiene with the removability of Invisalign aligners. It is important to brush and floss the teeth regularly to prevent oral issues that might require treatment and lengthen the treatment duration. Good oral hygiene also includes cleaning the tray properly to prevent bacteria accumulation and discoloration.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in Los Angeles, CA
A lot of time and effort goes into Invisalign treatment, so committing to the process will ensure you get that beautiful smile after the treatment is over. Contact our orthodontic office to discuss your requirements if you are interested in Invisalign treatment or need further guidance.
Request an appointment or call Brentwood Family Orthodontics at 310-307-3254 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.
Invisalign® is a modern teeth-straightening option that serves as an alternative to metal braces. Invisalign eliminates the need for brackets and wires; instead, it uses a series of clear plastic aligners to realign the teeth. Although lots of individuals are aware of the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign, like a straighter smile, there are also health…
Invisalign® is a breakthrough orthodontic technology that uses a series of transparent aligners to enhance the look of crooked, overlapping, and gapped teeth. If you are considering using Invisalign for your orthodontic treatment, you may be curious about how often you would have to go for checkups and what happens during those appointments. Continue reading…
Invisalign® aligners are a popular alternative to conventional metal braces. Although Invisalign offers more comfort than metal braces, it is impossible to eliminate the chances of mild pain or discomfort. The risk of discomfort seems to be highest during the first week of wearing invisible teeth aligners.A person’s pain tolerance also determines the degree of…
Expanders are custom-made appliances that can play an important role in orthodontic treatment. A narrow upper jaw can contribute to several orthodontic issues that are not treatable with braces alone. Therefore, an orthodontist may recommend this appliance to create more space for teeth to align properly.Expanders, commonly referred to as palatal expanders, fit across the…
Wondering whether wearing retainers is really necessary? Read on to learn more. You know braces and aligners can help you get those straight teeth you desire, but retainers are the next step. These little devices will keep your teeth aligned and your smile beautiful for years.Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth…