When it comes to braces and Invisalign, no one is more qualified to help you get a straight, beautiful smile that you can feel proud of than the smile experts at Smile Envy Dental Group, your go-to oral care provider in the Greater Atlanta Area. We’ve put together this FAQ to help our patients make sure they have the knowledge they need to make the right choice about Invisalign and braces.
What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?
Invisalign are virtually invisible aligners, made from a thermoplastic material uniquely developed for the Invisalign treatment plan that looks similar to teeth-whitening trays. A series of Invisalign aligners are custom-made for you, to move your teeth in the sequence determined by Dr. Lofters. Over the course of your treatment, you will be supplied with a series of aligners. Each aligner will make slight adjustments to a given tooth’s positioning, a process that is mapped out in advance by Dr. Lofters, specifically for your situation. When the aligners are placed on your teeth, they cause the teeth to gradually shift from their current position. After approximately two weeks, you will begin using the next set of aligners, which will continue the teeth straightening process.
How will Invisalign or Braces Effectively Move my Teeth?
Invisalign aligners move your teeth in much the same way that braces do, through the appropriate placement of controlled force. The main difference between Invisalign and regular braces is that Invisalign not only controls the force, but also the timing of the force application, and they are more discreet in their appearance. During each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move. These movements are determined by Dr. Lofters as he maps out your unique Invisalign treatment plan. Braces consist of metal brackets that are glued to your teeth and held together by wires and tiny rubber bands. You can get braces to more closely match your enamel color making them more discrete. But both braces and Invisalign work to guide your teeth to a more orally healthy and aesthetically pleasing position.
What are the Primary Benefits of Invisalign or Braces?
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, and it may be that no one will ever even notice that you’re wearing them, making Invisalign a seamless fit with your lifestyle. Invisalign aligners are removable. For the best results and a timely outcome, however, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. However, unlike with braces, you will have the flexibility to remove your aligners if you so choose so you can eat and drink what you want during your treatment. And you can also remove your aligners to brush and floss as you normally would, for fresh breath and great oral hygiene. There are no metal brackets or wires that could cause irritation to your mouth, an advantage over traditional braces. Plus, since your office visits during treatment don’t involve metal or wire adjustments, you’ll likely spend less time in the office during your follow-up appointments. Invisalign can require more self-discipline than braces as you will personally need to make sure you are keeping them in your mouth most of the day, whereas traditional braces are always in your mouth.
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How Long Will Treatment Take?
The length of your treatment depends on the severity of your case and can only be determined by Dr. Lofters. However, the average case takes about 12 months for adults, while the length of time necessary for a teen patient may vary. Braces typically need to be kept in for 12-24 months to achieve maximum effectiveness.
If you want to learn more about strengthening your teeth and the best course of treatment in your particular case, then contact the smile experts at Smile Envy Dental Group today to set up your consultation!
