Can Invisalign Straighten Your Teeth?

Adults with crooked smiles are often reluctant to talk to West Hartford cosmetic dentist Dr. Elzbieta Basil about braces. They think braces are for children or they fear the embarrassment of a mouth filled with metal.  The good news is that you’re never too old for straight teeth, and with Invisalign braces, you can have a beautiful smile within 12 to 24 months.

Invisalign Straightens Teeth Invisibly

Invisalign braces straighten teeth by using a custom-made series of clear aligner trays made especially for your dental needs. These aligner trays resemble plastic retainers traditionally used with conventional metal braces. However, aligners are virtually invisible. Most people won’t even realize you’re wearing them. Additionally, aligners are smooth and comfortable so they don’t typically irritate the inside of your mouth.

The benefit of wearing Invisalign braces is the ease of use. There are no visits to New Britain cosmetic dentist Dr. Elzbieta Basil to tighten wires or adjust brackets. With Invisalign, you simply change aligner trays every couple of weeks as your teeth slowly shift into alignment. That means no more overcrowded, crooked, or improperly spaced teeth. Then every six weeks or so, you visit your dentist for a checkup and to pick up your next set of trays.

Invisalign Offers a Simple Process to Correct Dental Issues

The Invisalign process is simple. West Hartford cosmetic dentist Dr. Basil begins by taking x-rays, pictures, and impressions of your mouth. From these, Invisalign creates a 3-D image to allow your dentist to determine your treatment plan.  Dr. Basil can even show you an approximate representation of your smile once treatment is complete.

Once New Britain cosmetic dentist Dr. Basil determines your individual needs, she creates a series of clear aligner trays. You wear each aligner for 20 to 22 hours per day for approximately two weeks each. Since everyone is different and has different needs, Dr. Basil will provide you with specific guidance.

Throughout the treatment, your teeth gently shift into place until it’s time to move to the next aligner. However, keep in mind you don’t want to move to the next aligner tray too soon. Forcing your teeth to move or advance to the next aligner too soon may cause other dental issues. Be sure to give your jawbone and tooth roots time to remodel properly, even if it takes longer than two weeks.

Invisalign unlike Conventional Metal Braces

Unlike conventional metal braces, Invisalign is a removable prosthetic. That makes eating your meals and cleaning your teeth so much easier. Although they are not ideal for the most complex straightening, along with their comfort and near invisibility, it’s tough to imagine making any other choice for cases where they are indicated.

If you have questions about whether Invisalign is right for you, talk to West Hartford cosmetic dentist Dr. Elzbieta Basil to learn more.