If your teeth are mis-aligned or appear to jut out at different angles, then you may be thinking about having them straightened. There is more than one way to have your teeth aligned, and one of those ways is with Invisalign.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a technologically advanced way of taking a 3D image of your teeth, both in their original position and in their completed position. With this image, then a treatment plan can be implemented. Clear aligners are then created from strong thermoplastic material, and these are placed in your mouth over your teeth and are moved in increments over the coming months. They will gently move your teeth into the desired place.
How Does That Work?
Although your teeth are deeply rooted in your jawbone, they can be manipulated. This is what the clear Invisalign does. Teeth can be moved at different paces, until the desired effect has been reached. The teeth need to be moved slowly to their destination. The beauty of Invisalign is that, unlike traditional braces, different teeth can be moved at different rates, rather than all teeth being moved at the same rate.
How Long Does The Whole Process Take?
There is no straight forward answer to this. Some people’s teeth are quicker to respond than others. However, long it takes, your dentist will keep you fully appraised along the way. At the very earliest, you should allow several months for the completion of treatment.
Will The Invisalign Be Prominent?
The wonderful thing about the Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible to others, unless they are closely scrutinizing your face or mouth. This is very different to the traditional braces, that some people hated wearing. Although today there is less stigma attached to having braces on your teeth, as there are many celebrities that have chosen to have their teeth aligned in this way in recent years.
Will Invisalign Work On Overbites?
The short answer to this is, usually. Sometimes you may have a complex dental arrangement and you may not be a suitable candidate, but your dentist will be able to shed more light on this for you.
Can I Remove The Invisalign?
Yes, you can remove it at any time, although clearly it needs to remain insitu for as long as possible. It is best to remove it whilst attending to your oral hygiene, but you should sleep with it over your teeth at night to allow it to continue doing its job. It is recommended that the Invisalign remain in place for at least 22 hours a day if possible.
Will I Need To Use A Retainer?
Wearing a retainer after completion of your Invisalign treatment is definitely a good idea, at least in the short-term, and one that your dentist will probably recommend. This is because it will help the teeth to stabilize in their new position. Your dentist will be able to give you full and comprehensive instructions on how to get the best from your Invisalign treatment plan.