If you’re one of the millions of people considering Invisalign, you’re likely wondering if the aligners are designed to last a lifetime? Here’s what you need to know. Invisalign is intended to be a long-term solution, but it’s not permanent. Invisalign Designed-
You may need to wear them for a year or longer, depending on your individual situation. However, once your treatment is complete, you’ll need to keep up with your regular dental hygiene routine and checkups to make sure your teeth stay healthy and look great.
But first, here’s a refresher course on Invisalign Designed for those just hearing about it for the first time.
What is Invisalign Designed for
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that straightens teeth without metal brackets or wires. It uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made for your teeth.
As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth gradually move into place. The entire process usually takes about a year. However, it can be shorter or longer depending on the severity of your misalignment. Learn more on the Invisalign website.
Types of Invisalign retainers – Invisalign Designed
Invisalign offers two types of retainers: the removable retainer and the fixed retainer.
- The Invisalign removable retainer is a clear, plastic tray that fits over your teeth. You wear the tray for 22 hours a day, and you remove it to eat, brush, and floss your teeth. The Invisalign removable retainer is easy to care for, and it’s virtually invisible when you wear it.
- The Invisalign fixed retainer is a thin wire that’s bonded to the back of your teeth. It’s not easy to remove the wire, so you’ll need to take extra care to brush and floss around it. The Invisalign fixed retainer is less visible than the Invisalign removable retainer, but it’s not invisible
What type of dental issues does Invisalign correct?
Invisalign can treat a wide variety of dental issues, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps in teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
Invisalign vs Traditional Braces
Invisalign and traditional braces are both effective ways to straighten teeth. But there are some key differences between the two.
Invisalign is almost invisible, so it’s a popular choice for adults who want to straighten their teeth without anyone knowing. The aligners are also removable, so you can eat and drink whatever you want. And you can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
Traditional braces, on the other hand, are more visible and can be uncomfortable. They also make it difficult to eat certain foods and brush and floss your teeth effectively.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign treatment starts with a consultation with your orthodontist or dentist to see if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. If you are, they will take impressions, x-rays, and photos of your teeth. They will then use these to create a digital 3D model of your teeth.
Once the digital model is created, your orthodontist or dentist will use it to map out a treatment plan. This plan will show the position of your teeth at each stage of treatment. After the treatment plan is finalized, your aligners will be custom-made to fit your teeth.
You will need to wear each aligner for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. As you progress through the aligners, your teeth will gradually move into place. You will also need to visit your orthodontist or dentist at least every six weeks to ensure your treatment is on track.
What is the treatment period for Invisalign?
The length of time it takes for Invisalign to work varies with the individual. In general, it takes about a year for the entire process to be complete. However, some people may need to wear their aligners for a shorter or longer period depending on the severity of their dental issue.
Do I need a retainer even after Invisalign treatment is over?
Yes, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain your results. Because without a retainer, your teeth can gradually shift back into their original position.
Wearing a retainer is usually a lifelong commitment. However, the frequency of wear may change over time. For example, you may need to wear it full-time for the first few months before being able to reduce it to only wearing it at night.
How can I ensure my Invisalign treatment lasts long?
Invisalign results are long-lasting, but it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly. If you don’t take care of your teeth, they can become crooked again over time.
Nonetheless, here are a few things you can do to ensure your Invisalign treatment lasts long:
- wear your aligners as directed by your orthodontist or dentist
- Clean your aligners regularly
- Visit your orthodontist or dentist regularly for checkups
- Wear a retainer as directed by your orthodontist or dentist
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular choice for people who are looking to straighten their teeth. There are several benefits of Invisalign that make it an attractive option for many people. Here are a few of them:
- Invisalign is virtually invisible: One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear, so they’re virtually invisible when you wear them. This means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing you’re doing it! So if you’re self-conscious about wearing metal braces, Invisalign may be the right choice for you.
- Invisalign is removable: Another benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. This means you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss your teeth. You can also remove the aligners for special occasions, such as weddings or job interviews. However, with traditional braces, you can’t remove them, so you have to be careful about what you eat and how you take care of your teeth.
- Invisalign is more comfortable than metal braces: Because Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic, they’re much more comfortable than metal braces. Metal braces can rub against your cheeks and lips, causing irritation and discomfort. Moreover, Invisalign aligners are less likely to cause gum recession than metal braces.
- Invisalign allows you to brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene. It also uses a shorter treatment time than traditional braces giving you visible and lasting results within a short period.
Caring for your Invisalign retainers
You’ll need to take special care of your Invisalign retainers to keep them clean and in good condition. Here are some tips for caring for your Invisalign retainers:
- Brush your teeth before you put in your aligners. This will help remove any food or bacteria that could get trapped under the aligners.
- Clean your aligners with soap and water. This will help remove any plaque or bacteria that could build up on the aligners.
- Don’t wear your aligners while eating. This will help prevent food from getting stuck in the aligners.
- Don’t smoke while wearing your aligners. This will help prevent stains from building up on the aligners.
- Take your aligners out before participating in activities that could damage them. This includes contact sports, swimming, and using whitening products.
Conclusion
Invisalign is a popular choice for people who are looking to straighten their teeth because it’s virtually invisible, comfortable, and allows you to brush and floss normally. However, Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces, and you’ll need to take special care of the aligners to keep them clean.
Nonetheless, if you wish to use Invisalign treatment on your teeth or have any further questions about Invisalign, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our dental team at West Lake Dental Group would be happy to answer all your questions and provide the necessary assistance to ensure a successful treatment.