What Invisalign Can Do For You

What Invisalign Can Do For You

Nov 13, 2013

Some patients are concerned about dental braces and the aesthetic effect of metalwork.  Invisalign is a fantastic option for straightening your teeth. It involves the use of clear plastic aligning trays made just for you. The custom-developed trays are switched out approximately every two weeks as your teeth move into position. An added benefit? The flexibility of being able to remove the trays makes it possible to remove Invisalign trays during important occasions.

Reasons for Seeking Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign trays are used to correct the same types of issues as traditional braces. However, the trays are invisible and can be removed whenever necessary. Some common issues that are treated with Invisalign are:

Gaps– Whether you have missing teeth or gaps caused by abnormal jaw growth, Invisalign can correct the problem.

Overcrowding– Invisalign trays can create spaces when there is not enough room in your mouth for all of your teeth to align, which increases your risk of tooth decay and may lead to gum disease.

Overbite– Correct an overlap between your upper and lower teeth for improved self-confidence, or to provide relief from jaw or TMJ discomfort.

Underbite– Ease jaw discomfort and improve the aesthetics of your smile by shifting lower teeth that overlap with your upper teeth.

Crossbite– Prevent the uneven wear that occurs when your bite meets in a crossbite, which can lead to bone erosion and gum disease.

Choosing Invisalign as a Treatment Option

Of course, these dental issues can be corrected with a variety of treatments, including traditional braces and porcelain veneers. However, many people find that Invisalign is the best treatment option to achieve the results they desire. For example, Invisalign trays actually straighten your teeth while veneers cover imperfections. Plus, the trays are comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, which makes it easy to keep them in.

The Invisalign Treatment Process

First your dentist will create an initial treatment plan. He will take pictures of your mouth with a special three-dimensional digital camera, and pull the photos up on a screen. Then your dentist can manipulate the teeth in the photos to get an idea of potential results. He can also observe your jaw from different angles. A unique set of aligning trays will be created based on the treatment plan your dentist develops. There are usually 20-29 aligners created per arch.

You may need several weeks to become comfortable with the Invisalign aligning trays. Even though they can be removed for special circumstances, it is important that you wear them at all other times. The one exception is when you are eating, because food can become trapped inside the trays.

Schedule an Office Visit

Ask your dentist if you have questions about whether Invisalign treatment is right for you or another other family member. School vacations are approaching, which makes it a great time to schedule appointments. Call right away, as appointments book up quickly at the end of the year.

The financial spending account (FSA) deadline is also coming up. Consider using your FSA balance to finance your trays instead of forfeiting your balance. You aren’t taxed on income placed in an FSA. If you plan on investigating Invisalign for you or a dependent for next year, schedule your FSA deductions now.

Image Source: commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Invisalign_aligner.jpg

Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/cosmetic-dentistry/invisalign-can