Invisalign

Invisalign In Winter Park, Fl

While modern-day orthodontic brace systems are more discreet than the 'train track' style braces of old, most still utilize metal brackets and tension wiring which are permanently attached to the teeth. Unfortunately for many adults in need of orthodontic treatment, the lack of discretion can be a big stumbling block. If you have a malocclusion, crooked teeth, or suffer from tooth overcrowding but really don't want to wear a permanent metal brace, then come and talk to us about clear braces.

Otherwise known as Invisalign this clear brace system is as far removed from conventional braces as it possibly can be. Rather than brackets and wiring, the Invisalign system uses a series of easily removable clear plastic aligners that fit (like a mouth guard) directly over your teeth. Because they're made from a light clear acrylic, the only person who knows you're wearing them is you.

So How Do Invisalign (Clear Braces) Work?

Advanced planning

Firstly our dentist will map out your treatment using a series of impressions and x-rays. This information is sent off to a central laboratory along with detailed instructions of how the teeth should be moved. Using all the information the Invisalign team will turn it into a 3D model of your mouth along with detailed step-by-step movements of your teeth from start to finish. The dentist will then log on to the computer screen and review the movements. If changes are needed the lab is informed so they can make any final adjustments. Once the dentist is happy the lab will be instructed to go ahead and make the aligners (also known as trays). You may have as many as 30 aligners or as few as 12 depending upon the type and severity of your condition.

The process itself

After approximately 4 weeks you'll be called back to our dental office to be given your aligners and shown how to wear them. For best results each aligner needs to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day, remembering that they need to be removed every time you eat, drink, and brush your teeth.

So how do Invisalign Aligners straighten teeth?

Every time you wear an aligner the pressure of the aligner gradually forces the teeth to fit the exact space within. When your teeth finally fit the tray perfectly, it's changed for the next one in the series and the whole process starts again. Eventually over a period of 9-18 months, a series of small movements (approximately 1/10mm per aligner) results in straighter teeth and a better bite function.

If you're not happy with your smile and would like to talk to us about discreet orthodontic treatment then contact us for a consultation today.