Do you have crooked teeth but don’t want to deal with the hassle of metal braces? Are you looking for a discreet alternative to traditional orthodontic care? Ask our professional dental team at Perfect Smiles about Invisalign treatment in Bensalem, PA. Invisalign is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that can straighten misaligned and crooked teeth. It offers convenience and comfort to patients with mild or moderate orthodontic concerns. Additionally, Invisalign benefits teens and adults who want to change their smiles.
Invisalign Treatment
To begin Invisalign treatment, we take dental scans of your teeth. These digital, detailed scans are used to create your treatment plan. We send the scans to a dental lab where the aligners are fabricated. Each pair of Invisalign aligners is different. They gradually shift the teeth into a straighter position over time. The aligners are switched out every few weeks as the teeth shift. When the aligners are completed, we will ensure that your first pair fits you perfectly.
Although Invisalign is easy to use, patients need to care for their aligners in several ways. Clean the aligners and your natural teeth after eating. Avoid eating or drinking foods or beverages other than water, as this can stain the aligners. Finally, keep them in their case when you are not using them.
Invisalign Vs. Traditional Braces
Many patients prefer Invisalign over traditional methods of straightening teeth. Instead of metal brackets and wires, clear aligners aren’t very visible on your teeth. It’s a subtler way of straightening your smile. Invisalign treatment is often faster than treatment with braces as well. You don’t have to deal with the aligners as long as you might if you had braces.
One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign is that you can remove the aligners. While you must wear them for around 22 hours daily, you can take them out to eat or perform your oral healthcare routine. Because you can take them out, you don’t have to eliminate any foods from your diet. Your oral healthcare routine stays the same, too. You don’t have to learn how to brush or floss around those brackets or wires.
It’s difficult to clean metal braces properly. When they’re taken off, sometimes white spots are left behind where the brackets were. This staining shows that you couldn’t brush the areas around the brackets as well as you should have. With Invisalign, you never have to worry about improperly cleaning your teeth.
Invisalign FAQs
Discover more about Invisalign as we answer common questions about this cosmetic treatment:
How long is Invisalign treatment?
Patients wear their aligners for 22 hours a day. For the best results, we recommend that patients only remove their aligners to eat and clean their smiles. Invisalign treatment typically takes 12 to 18 months. However, this will depend on each patient’s orthodontic needs and compliance with caring for their aligners.
Is Invisalign treatment painful?
Patients adjusting to each new pair of aligners may feel tooth sensitivity or soreness. Many patients find that this soreness fades over time. In addition, metal braces can often be more painful than Invisalign. This is because the metal wires can poke and irritate the gums. Invisalign aligners conform to the teeth and do not have sharp edges.
How does Invisalign compare to metal braces?
Invisalign is a more comfortable and discreet option than traditional braces. This is because the provider fabricates them precisely to fit the smile. With Invisalign, patients do not need to visit the dentist to tighten their brackets or add wires. One added benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Patients can easily brush and floss as well as eat without dietary restrictions. On the other hand, we may recommend metal braces for patients with more severe orthodontic problems or overcrowding.
How soon do you see Invisalign results?
Invisalign treatment progress varies from patient to patient. However, many patients begin seeing noticeable results within 2 to 3 months of treatment. However, the final results usually occur after 12 to 18 months of consistent use. Keep in mind these timelines can vary greatly depending on your case. Factors such as the shape of your jaw and the conditions of your gums can affect how long it will take to see results.
Can you skip a day with Invisalign?
No, your orthodontist will not recommend skipping a day while using Invisalign. Doing so can affect the alignment of your teeth and disrupt the timeline of your treatment plan. You should wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily to move your teeth effectively. Skipping a day can disrupt the progress of your treatment and may prolong the total treatment time. You should only remove the aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. You can also remove your aligners to brush and floss your teeth.
What is the best toothbrush for Invisalign?
The best toothbrush for Invisalign should be a soft-bristled toothbrush. This brush allows you to get into tight spaces in and around your brackets, aligners, and wires for thorough cleaning. An electric toothbrush with a round head can help reduce plaque buildup while keeping your Invisalign clean. Lastly, choosing a brush with an ergonomic handle is important to make brushing comfortable.
Request a Dental Appointment
Are you interested in Invisalign treatment? Call Perfect Smiles for a straighter smile today at 215-770-1081. You can also schedule a dental consultation with us on our website. Let our team know if you have any current orthodontic concerns. They will review your options with you at your next appointment.