Invisalign®
Invisalign® clear aligners prove that effective orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to be difficult. These ingenious appliances have helped millions straighten their teeth and achieve better-looking smiles, and they can help you, too.
Your Invisalign® Dentist in Lake Zurich, IL
Invisalign® is a great alternative to metal braces. Invisalign® is a series of clear trays that patients wear over the course of usually 6 to 18 months. The trays, which are replaced every few weeks, gradually move the patient’s teeth into the desired position over time. Unlike braces, patients can remove Invisalign® trays to eat, to brush and floss, and even to take pictures. Also unlike metal braces, Invisalign® is nearly invisible, allowing people to avoid having a mouth full of metal wires and brackets. Finally, Invisalign® is for almost anyone, not just teenagers, and it can both improve one’s appearance as well as address bite problems (maloocclusion) that can cause wear and damage to the teeth.
Post-Treatment Care
First Months After Invisalign®
After completing Invisalign® treatment, wear the provided retainers day and night for the first 3 months. Remove them only for eating and brushing your teeth. After 3 months, wear them only at night to maintain your smile. Consistent nighttime wear is necessary to prevent teeth from shifting.
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How does the Invisalign® process work?
As your Invisalign® provider, we will begin by taking photographs of your teeth and face, along with a digital 3D scan and x-rays. Those records are sent to Invisalign with detailed instructions on how we want the final result to appear. Invisalign® will scan the impressions to create a 3D model of the teeth and work with your dentist to get the mold to its exact proportions. Once final, the trays are made and mailed to your dentist’s office. You will wear a set of trays for two weeks at a time for approximately 2 years, or the length determined by your dentist.
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Invisalign® vs. braces - what's the difference?
There are many differences between Invisalign® and braces; we've listed some of the biggest ones here. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, but the introduction of Invisalign® to the market has introduced a more efficient, more attractive way to straighten teeth.
- Invisalign® uses clear transparent aligners, while braces use wires and brackets. The user can remove Invisalign® aligners at any time, while a professional can only remove braces.
- Invisalign® allows a user to eat whatever they would like and not make changes to their oral care practices. Braces restrict what the user can safely eat and require special maintenance and care.
- Invisalign® aligners do not present any injury risks, while braces can lead to cuts and other injuries.
- Invisalign® aligners are nearly impossible for others to notice, while braces are almost impossible to miss.
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Who can use Invisalign®?
Most teens and adult patients requiring mild to moderate orthodontic corrections can use Invisalign®. This includes patients with teeth that are crooked and misaligned or teeth that feature noticeable spacing problems. Invisalign® can even help patients with minor bite issues—however, not all orthodontic issues can be treated with Invisalign®. More extensive problems will require additional treatment.
More Questions?
If you have questions about Invisalign®, please get in touch with our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
