Many adults are spending the time and money to correct the imperfections in their smiles. After meeting with an experienced orthodontist or cosmetic dentist patients may be advised that they need braces to straighten their teeth. Many patients do not want the traditional metal braces as they are very noticeable. These patients should seek a consultation with an orthodontist specializing in Invisalign. Invisalign® offers patients a newer form of orthodontics using a series of clear molds to straighten their teeth.
How does Invisalign® work?
Patients considering Invisalign® retainers will consult with an orthodontist trained in the process. The orthodontist will take a three-dimensional computer image of the patient’s mouth to create the series of clear retainers that will be used to straighten the teeth. To begin the first retainer is in the current shape of the teeth and every retainer that proceeds will use mild pressure to straighten the teeth. Invisalign typically uses between eighteen and thirty retainers. This is determined by how much the teeth need to be straightened. Each retainer is worn for two weeks. Patients need to wear the retainers all day and only remove them for meals and teeth brushing.
Benefits of Invisalign® Retainers
The obvious advantage to Invisalign® is that the retainers are not as noticeable compared to traditional metal braces. There are some other benefits to Invisalign® retainers that may not be as apparent such as they support better dental hygiene because they can be removed for brushing and flossing the teeth. There are also very little restrictions on food and beverages that can be consumed while using Invisalign as they are removed during eating. In addition, traditional metal braces can often stain teeth and this is not an issue with Invisalign®.
Disadvantages to Invisalign®
The main disadvantage to Invisalign® retainers is the cost. Invisalign® retainers are more expensive than traditional metal braces. A patient considering Invisalign® should first check to see if their dental insurance covers some of the cost of Invisalign®. If they are unable to get Invisalign® braces covered by insurance they should speak to their orthodontist about other payment options such as financing. Another disadvantage to Invisalign® is that it can take longer to correct the teeth when patients fail to wear them as prescribed.
For cosmetic dentistry, find a cosmetic dentist or Huntington Beach Invisalign specialist.
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