Invisalign in Allen

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. These custom-made plastic trays are designed to fit snugly over your teeth and apply gentle pressure to move them into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, allowing for a more discreet teeth-straightening experience.

Invisalign in Allen
Invisalign in Allen

Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign offers several advantages over traditional orthodontic treatments. The aligners are removable, making it easier to eat, drink, brush, and floss. They're also more comfortable than metal braces, with no sharp edges or wires to irritate the mouth. The clear design makes them less noticeable, which can boost confidence during treatment. Additionally, Invisalign often requires fewer office visits and can sometimes achieve results faster than traditional braces for certain orthodontic issues.

Another significant benefit of Invisalign is its ability to clearly visualize the expected treatment outcome. Using 3D imaging technology, patients can see a virtual representation of how their teeth will look at each stage of the treatment, including the final result. This not only helps in setting realistic expectations but also allows for adjustments to the treatment plan if needed. Furthermore, Invisalign aligners can be used to address a wide range of orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites, making it a versatile solution for many patients.

HOW DOES INVISALIGN WORK?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that consists of removable clear aligners that must be worn for 22 hours a day. The length of treatment depends on the severity of your alignment problems. 

Invisalign is a better alternative to metal braces because the transparent aligners make the treatment invisible and the ability to remove them before eating and cleaning your teeth makes them more hygienic. 

You will receive a new set of aligners every 2 weeks which gradually shift your teeth by exerting gentle force. Contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Natchi at West Allen Dental today.

Invisalign in Allen

Did you know…

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To prevent your teeth from shifting back to their old alignment, you will need to wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment.

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HOW IT WORKS: THE INVISALIGN PROCESS in allen, TX

Allen Invisalign

Consultation

Your dentist in Allen, TX will examine your mouth to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. If you are in poor oral health or have severe malocclusions, Invisalign may not be right for you. If you are a good candidate, your goals will be discussed and a treatment you will be given an estimated time frame for your orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign in Allen, TX

IMPRESSIONS

Impressions of your teeth will be taken either during your consultation or at a separate appointment with a digital scanner or mold. These impressions serve as a model to create your custom aligner trays that will fit snugly over your teeth. They are sent to an outside dental lab that creates the trays and sends them back to us.

Allen TX Invisalign

FITTING & ATTACHMENTS

When we receive your custom aligner trays from the dental lab, you will return to our office to pick them up. First, we will test how they fit and how your teeth move.

Invisalign Allen

FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS

You will receive a new set of aligners every 2 weeks. It’s important to wear them for 22 hours a day or your next set of aligners will not fit properly. At the end of your treatment, if you still have a few teeth needing adjusting, you may need some additional refinement trays.

Allen Invisalign

AFTERCARE

Once Invisalign treatment has been completed, you will need to wear a retainer for 22 hours a day for a set amount of time until the jawbone is no longer malleable. If you don’t wear a retainer, your teeth can shift back and reverse all of your progress.

Did you know…

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Invisalign can be combined with attachment buttons and elastics to correct severe malocclusions such as over and underbites.

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HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT INVISALIGN? FIND ANSWERS HERE.

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HOW LONG WILL THE PROCESS TAKE?

The exact length of treatment is variable depending on many factors such as the severity of your malocclusions, your age, and how compliant you are with keeping your aligners in. A child’s mouth is still developing until about 13 years.

Adolescents whose jawbone is still malleable and growing may experience faster results than adults. Mildly crooked teeth can take as little as 6 months to correct but the average length of treatment for most people is 12-18 months. Severe malocclusions can take at least a couple of years to correct.

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WILL IT BE PAINFUL?

Invisalign is considerably more comfortable than traditional braces because the aligners are made of plastic instead of metal wires and brackets, and they exert gentler force on the teeth. However, some mild pain is to be expected with any orthodontic treatment, because of pressure applied to your teeth to move them. 

The first week of wearing Invisalign will likely be the most soreness you will experience as your teeth get used to wearing the aligners. Because you switch out aligners every 2 weeks, some soreness or mild pain may occur in the first few days of wearing your new aligners. This is when the aligners will be the tightest. 

To relieve pain, you can take anti-pain medication or try sucking on an ice cube. However, over time your teeth will adjust. Any pain should be mild and only last for a few days after receiving a new set of aligners.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO COME IN FOR FOLLOW-UPS?

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You will return to our dental office every 4-6 weeks for follow-up appointments to check on your progress. During these appointments, we check that your teeth are properly shifting and that your aligner trays are fitting properly. 

We will also give you multiple sets of aligner trays for you to switch out no sooner than every 2 weeks. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment, this would be a perfect time to ask.

Will I Need Invisalign Attachments?

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Invisalign attachments, also known as buttons, are small tooth-colored bumps that are bonded to certain teeth to help the aligners grip them better. While not all Invisalign patients require attachments, they are commonly used to achieve more precise tooth movements. Your dentist will assess your specific case and determine if attachments are necessary for your treatment.

Invisalign attachments are made from a tooth-colored composite material, making them discreet and barely noticeable. They are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, minimizing their visibility. The attachments are custom-made and strategically placed on the teeth that need additional support during the alignment process.

If your dentist recommends attachments as part of your Invisalign treatment, they will explain the process to you in detail. The attachments are placed at the beginning of your treatment and will be removed once your Invisalign journey is complete.

How Do I Clean My Trays?

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Proper cleaning and maintenance of your Invisalign trays are essential to keep them clear, odorless, and hygienic throughout your treatment. Here are some tips to help you keep your trays clean:

Rinse: Whenever you remove your trays, rinse them with lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris.

Brush: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and a mild, clear, or transparent antibacterial soap to gently brush your trays. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and leave visible scratches on the trays.

Soak: Soaking your trays can help remove any stubborn stains or odors. Your dentist may provide a specialized Invisalign cleaning solution to keep your trays clean. Follow the instructions provided by your dentist or the manufacturer for the recommended soaking duration.

Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can warp your Invisalign trays, so always use lukewarm water for cleaning purposes.

Handle With Care: When handling your trays, be gentle to avoid bending or damaging them. Avoid using sharp objects or excessive force when inserting or removing your trays.

Remember to clean your trays regularly, ideally every time you remove them for meals or snacks. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth before reinserting your trays is also crucial.

What Happens If I Don't Wear My Trays 22 Hours A Day?

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Consistency is key when it comes to Invisalign treatment. In order to achieve the desired results within the estimated timeframe, it is important to wear your Invisalign trays for a minimum of 22 hours a day. Deviating from this recommended wear time can significantly impact the effectiveness of your treatment.

Without wearing the trays as directed, the consistent pressure needed to shift teeth gradually fades away, leading to slowed or halted progress. Neglecting the prescribed wear time may require adjustments to the treatment plan, which could prolong the timeline. If trays aren't worn as instructed, the final alignment might not meet expectations. This could impact both aesthetics and functionality.

To ensure the success of your Invisalign treatment, it is crucial to commit to wearing your trays for the recommended time. Remember, the more consistent you are with wearing your trays, the faster and more effective your treatment will be.

Is Invisalign better than braces?

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Whether Invisalign is better than braces depends on individual circumstances. Invisalign excels in treating mild to moderate orthodontic issues and offers greater comfort and aesthetic appeal. It's particularly beneficial for adults and teens who are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces. The removable nature of the aligners also makes maintaining oral hygiene easier during treatment.

However, traditional braces may be more effective for complex orthodontic problems or severe misalignments. They can apply more precise force to move teeth and are not dependent on patient compliance for wearing the appliance. In some cases, braces may achieve results more quickly or be more cost-effective. Ultimately, the choice between Invisalign and braces should be made in consultation with an orthodontist, considering factors such as the specific dental issues, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

When is the best age to get Invisalign?

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There is no single "best" age for Invisalign treatment, as it can be effective for both adolescents and adults. For teenagers, Invisalign is often recommended after all permanent teeth have erupted, typically around age 13-14. This ensures that the treatment can address the full scope of orthodontic issues. Invisalign Teen, a variant designed specifically for younger patients, includes features like compliance indicators and replacement aligners to accommodate growing mouths.

For adults, Invisalign can be an excellent option at any age, provided their oral health is good and they don't have severe orthodontic problems. Many adults choose Invisalign because of its discreet appearance and minimal impact on daily life. The ideal timing for adult treatment often depends more on personal readiness and financial considerations rather than age. It's worth noting that orthodontic treatment in adulthood may take longer due to decreased bone plasticity, but can still yield excellent results.

Did you know…

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Feeling like your teeth are “loose” is a normal experience during Invisalign treatment.

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