Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment utilizing clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth and correct dental issues. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them discreet and appealing to patients concerned about appearance during treatment. The process begins with a consultation where a 3D scan or impressions are taken to create custom-made aligners. These aligners gradually shift teeth into their desired positions based on a personalized treatment plan designed by an orthodontist. Patients typically wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before progressing to the next set. Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing for easier oral hygiene maintenance and the ability to eat and drink without restrictions compared to braces. Regular check-ups with the orthodontist monitor progress, ensuring effective alignment and achieving a straighter smile throughout treatment. 

Reasons You Might Need Invisalign

Aesthetics and Confidence

• Invisalign aligners are transparent, making them much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. This feature particularly appeals to adults and teens who prefer a more subtle orthodontic treatment. 

• By straightening your teeth with Invisalign, you can achieve a more confident smile without feeling self-conscious about wearing braces. 

Comfort and Convenience

• Unlike braces, which are fixed to your teeth, Invisalign aligners are removable. This feature allows you to eat and drink comfortably without restrictions and brush and floss your teeth normally, promoting better oral hygiene during treatment. 

• Invisalign aligners are smooth and comfortable without the discomfort and potential irritation that traditional braces can cause. 

Effective Treatment for Various Dental Issues

• Invisalign can effectively address crowded teeth or gaps between teeth by gradually moving them into proper alignment. 

• It can also correct bite issues such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite, improving overall dental function and reducing the risk of dental problems like tooth wear and jaw pain. 

• Each Invisalign treatment plan is customized based on 3D imaging technology and the patient's specific needs, ensuring precise and predictable results. 

Predictable and Faster Treatment

• Invisalign treatment begins with a digital scan or impression of your teeth, which creates a series of aligners customized to move your teeth gradually. 

• Your orthodontist will monitor your progress throughout your treatment and provide you with new sets of aligners approximately every two weeks. This ensures that your teeth are steadily moving towards their desired positions. 

• While the duration of treatment varies depending on individual needs, Invisalign often offers shorter treatment times than traditional braces for many patients. 

Flexibility and Lifestyle Compatibility

• Invisalign aligners can be removed during sports activities or special events where you prefer not to wear them. 

• The clear aligners allow you to maintain a professional appearance at work or in social settings without the noticeable presence of braces. 

How Does Invisalign Work? 

Your journey with Invisalign begins with an initial consultation with an orthodontist or dentist trained in Invisalign treatment. During this visit, your dental professional will examine your teeth and discuss your orthodontic goals. 

Advanced 3D imaging technology, such as digital scanning or traditional impressions, creates a precise digital model of your teeth. This model allows your orthodontist to plan your treatment using computerized software. 

A custom treatment plan is developed based on your dental impressions and treatment goals. This plan outlines the specific movements your teeth will undergo throughout the treatment and the approximate duration of the process. 

Using the digital model of your teeth, a series of clear aligners are custom-designed and fabricated precisely for your treatment plan. Each set of aligners slightly differs from the previous one, gradually guiding your teeth into the desired positions. 

Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic that is comfortable to wear and virtually invisible when placed over teeth. 

Depending on your orthodontist's recommendation, you will receive a series of aligners, typically wearing each set for about 1-2 weeks. Each aligner is worn for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them for eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing. 

Each aligner applies gentle pressure to specific teeth, gradually moving them into their prescribed positions according to your treatment plan. The aligners address orthodontic issues, such as overcrowding, spacing, and bite alignment. 

Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you will have periodic check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor progress and receive your following aligners. These appointments typically occur every 6-8 weeks but may vary based on your treatment needs. 

During check-ups, your orthodontist will assess how well your teeth respond to treatment and make any necessary adjustments to achieve the desired outcomes. 

Your active Invisalign treatment is complete once you have worn all aligners as prescribed. Your orthodontist may recommend additional measures, such as retainers, to maintain your newly straightened smile. Retainers help to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions and are usually worn at night. Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how long to wear retainers to maintain the results of your Invisalign treatment. 

Invisalign offers a modern and convenient alternative to traditional braces, providing effective orthodontic treatment with minimal disruption to your daily life. Visit Dental Specialists of New York PC at 150 East 58th Street, New York, NY 10155, 110 York Street Brooklyn, NY 11201, or 476 48th Street, 3rd Floor Brooklyn, NY 11220, to explore whether Invisalign is right for you and embark on your journey towards a more confident smile. You can schedule an appointment online or call us at (212) 661-2192.