What is Invisalign and Why it is the most Suggested Aligners?
In a world full of advanced technology and innovative knowledge, several ways and means had been introduced for the alignment of teeth. Amongst the many treatments established and launched in the market, Invisalign is one of the most in-demand.
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment commonly being used by patients with overbite, crossbite, or underbite. This treatment uses clear plastic trays to move the teeth slowly but steadily into proper alignment. This material is generally known as aligners. With an orthodontist’ expertise, this whole process is carefully being planned and executed digitally. The aligners are also being printed 3D according to the plan.
How does Invisalign work? A custom-made material known as aligner trays will be provided to the patient. These aligner trays are digitally planned and prepared specifically for the patient’s teeth and must be worn 1-2 weeks for 22 hours/day. With the help of the attachments that are glued to the teeth when the trays are worn, a gradual movement of the teeth will occur during this procedure, causing the misalignment to be treated.
You must be intrigued by now how to get started with Invisalign. Let us talk about the step-by-step process. First, during your routine check-up, your specialist will assess if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment. Should you decide to move forward with the treatment, you will have to complete a series of 3D digital impressions wherein images and radiographs of your teeth are taken and sent to Invisalign laboratories. Kindly note that this whole procedure is thoroughly planned and regulated by your Orthodontist. An accurate set of aligner trays will then be created once the plan is finalized. Depending on the severity of misalignment, the number of aligner trays varies. You will then begin with your first tray and snap them over your natural teeth. Each tray should be worn for 1-2 weeks for 22 hours/day before you progress to the next tray. Your Orthodontist will monitor the progress throughout the whole treatment until the end of the tray series. If minor adjustments are needed, your Orthodontist will perform a rescanning of your teeth and will provide another set of trays with fewer aligners to achieve your enhanced smile.
When we talk about Orthodontic treatments, people would always first mention about braces. The next question would always be what makes Invisalign differ from braces? The core distinction between the two treatments is the procedures itself. Unlike braces wherein brackets are glued to the teeth and linked with wires, Invisalign uses aligner trays that are easily detachable and changeable, allowing patients to still maintain their oral diet and wellness, even do their normal routine such as flossing and brushing. Invisalign is also more discreet yet subtle because of the transparent aligner trays that are being used. As brackets and wires are not used in this treatment, it is also more comfortable and causes less irritation to your lips and cheeks. Lastly, as this treatment is planned and implemented digitally, wherein tray aligners are created through digital imaging, Invisalign performs an accurate treatment; thus, provides a precise result.
When we talk about the result, with Invisalign, the patient’s obedience, is highly required. As mentioned on the onset of this passage, the aligner trays should be worn 1-2 week 22 hours/day. This is a must to ensure that you are achieving the outcome as scheduled. Should you wish to make the treatment time shorter, our Orthodontist in Abu Dhabi may suggest other orthodontic appliances to be used along with your Invisalign.
How should you take care of Invisalign aligners? Invisalign clear aligners are made of flexible plastic; hence, eating or drinking hot liquids will distort them. You have around 2 hours in a day to eat and drink hot fluids when the aligner trays are not worn. Brushing and flossing after eating is recommended before you pop them back into your mouth. To avoid formation of deposits, aligners should also be brushed with a soft toothbrush and rinsed with water when not in use to wash off any plaque and saliva. You can use a denture cleaner or a home solution for this, but not toothpaste. Lastly, aligners should be put back in their cases when not in use.