Invisalign

What is Invisalign®?

Invisaligns® are custom made clear aligners. It is an alternative to the traditional metal braces. These aligners are virtually not visible. It is also called as a ‘Clear Aligner Treatment’. They are built in such a way that while shifting the teeth horizontal, vertical or while rotating the teeth the amount of force and pressure exerted is not more or less.

There are different types of braces available and Invisalign® is one of them. It was invented in 1997 by Zia Chishti and Kelsey Wirth of the ‘Align Technology’ which is a multi-national company in San Jose, California.

They are orthodontic devices with incremental clear aligners for teeth adjustment. In this treatment, the dentist will take the teeth impressions on a mold and digital tooth scans are developed. The scans will help explain the present teeth structure and the desired teeth structure. The aligners will help to move the teeth towards the desired structure.

Invisalign® is modeled in a fashion that has changed the way people used to view braces. These aligners are barely visible. Metal braces did not suit everyone’s appearance. So you won’t look like a sidelined geek anymore since they naturally set in your mouth, which in turn will boost your self-esteem.

An Invisalign® would treat problems that range from simple to complex. They are helpful if you require straightening of the teeth or if you have spacing issues or overlapping teeth.

These aligners can be taken out so if you are someone who is interested in active sports, you can take them out before playing. Teenagers and adults commonly use them. With Invisalign®, you can say goodbye to the olden days when metal braces injured and bruised your mouth. No need to endure pain from sharp brackets or wires.

How long does the treatment take?

The time taken for the whole treatment success will depend on the complexity of the mouth structure. The average time taken for the completion of this process can take a few months to about a year. The alignment devices are worn for 20 hours a day for two weeks. They do not cause any discomfort. They are changed every week and the new ones help with the correct alignment.

What are the benefits of an Invisalign®?

Braces are the right choice if the teeth need to be aligned in a particular way. Invisalign® is more comfortable and safe. Traditional braces had metal wires and edges that were painful. Also with metal braces, it cannot be clearly known how long it will be required to wear them but Invisalign® uses computerized treatment methodology. They are less obvious on the teeth and adults can also wear braces without feeling embarrassed. The fact that Invisalign® is only slightly visible on the teeth makes it looks better. Invisalign® braces are removable, unlike other braces. They can be removed while dining, brushing, and flossing. Not being able to clean the braces properly can leave food residue on teeth for days, which can cause periodontal issues. Generally, braces are worn for 5 years or so but Invisalign® works wonderfully well in just a year and a half.

Dr. Cutler and Dr. Grundmann are one of the leading dentists in San Jose, CA. To get your customized Invisalign®, call us at 408-252-5575 to book an appointment.