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All About Invisalign: 5 Facts to Know

Published on: Feb 25, 2022
All About Invisalign: 5 Facts to Know Z Dentistry

If you plan to align your teeth but want to try something different from traditional metal braces, you need to know all about Invisalign. Invisalign is a transparent system that helps patients align their teeth. It’s more invisible than metal braces and can often times take a shorter amount of time to straighten your teeth. 

What are some things you should know about the Invisalign method?

Before you try out the Invisalign system, you need to consult an orthodontist or dentist trained to install it. They need to understand the procedure and provide solutions to your teeth alignment issues. Here are the Invisalign facts to know.

  1. Invisalign Takes 3-24 Months
  2. Aligners Are Worn 20-22 Hours Per Day
  3. Regular Check-Ups Are Required
  4. Invisalign Trays Are Removable
  5. There Are No Wires or Metal Brackets

1) Invisalign Takes 3-24 Months

The Invisalign technology has proven to take a much shorter amount of time than traditional braces, in some cases. Most patients can complete treatment in 3 to 24 months, depending on your specific teeth and the movements required. The complexity of your case will determine this time length. For example, a significant amount of movement may result in longer treatment time, or, even a more traditional treatment option like bracket and wire orthodontics. 

2) Patients Must Wear Aligners 20-22 Hours Per Day

Patients must commit to wearing aligners 20-22 hours per day in order to achieve the most desirable outcome. This means you only have a few hours each day to do any kind of eating and drinking (other than water). Invisalign trays slowly nudge teeth into a better position through micro-movements, making Invisalign a major lifestyle change for patients. Not following these crucial guidelines may give you an unfavorable outcome. If you don’t think you can make this commitment, consider a more traditional style of orthodontics, like braces.

3) Regular Check-Ups with Dr. Smith Are Required

You’ll receive several sets of trays throughout your treatment, though you will not get them all upfront. Every 4-8 weeks, you will visit Dr. Smith so he can check your treatment progress. This ensures your teeth are moving the way predicted. During these visits, attachments may be added or removed from particular teeth, or selective slenderizing of teeth may be required. You will also receive your next 4-8 sets of trays and be given advice on what to do better or continue to do. If your schedule or lifestyle doesn’t allow for regular check-up appointments during Invisalign treatment, you may need a different orthodontic option.

4) Invisalign Trays Are Removable

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign trays are removable, allowing you to eat and drink comfortably. You can do whatever you want, including flossing and brushing your teeth as you would normally do. That’s because they are not secured or fixed on the teeth. Every time you eat or drink non-clear liquids, you remove the trays. When you’re finished, brush and floss like usual, clean out your trays, and place them back on. It’s that simple! For some though, this can be a game changer. If you aren’t dedicated to the maintenance necessary during Invisalign, talk to Dr. Z about other options.

5) There Are No Wires or Metal Brackets

Invisalign treatment doesn’t use wires or metal brackets to hold your teeth together, making them an almost invisible solution for straightening teeth. Invisalign aligners are made of medical-grade plastic: Multilayer aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane/co-polyester. This is what makes them invisible while slowly aligning your teeth into place. In addition, the attachments placed on the front of select teeth act like handles that grab hold of the trays and to assist movement.

Choosing Invisalign to Correct & Perfect Your Smile

Now that you know all about Invisalign, you can use make a more informed decision on whether or not it’s a better option for you than traditional metal braces. In summary, Invisalign has the same goal as bracket and wire braces, but has the added benefit of being clear and removable. See how these cutting-edge aligners can transform your smile! Contact us today to get your Invisalign treatment plan from trained professionals.

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