Fix Your Smile with Invisalign®

Misaligned and crooked teeth mess up your smile and appearance as well as affect your gum and surrounding teeth, and only a dental brace can fix them. Metal braces have been the orthodontic treatment of choice until the Invisalign® was created.

Invisalign® is, in essence, a brand name that has soon become a general term, although many companies create clear braces. Like the traditional aligners, clear braces shift your teeth little by little until they are aligned. Invisalign braces use clear tray aligners and are made of plastic blend that mimic your teeth shape.

Invisible aligners are not for everyone, so you need to call Dr. Olivia M. Rodrigues DDS for a consultation on which orthodontic treatment is perfect for you.

Can Anyone Use the Clear Braces?

No. the invisible braces are ideal for teens and adults. Furthermore, they are also reserved for people with mild to mild crowded teeth or spacing issues. If your teeth spacing is severe, the dentist will recommend a more complex treatment.

How do They Work?

Invisible braces move your teeth 0.3mm with each set to attain the ideal shape. You will need a set of aligners every two weeks. Why? Because it takes 14 days for the bones to settle in the new position.

The clear aligners are to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day for better results, but remove them when eating, flossing, and brushing.

The procedure

On your first dental visit, the orthodontist will examine your dental health using x-rays and digital scans, and also take impressions of your teeth. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to fix your bite. So, using an aligner software, we will plan your treatment process and create a set of custom-fit aligners.

Teeth alignment is a complex process; therefore, you will need to visit our dental clinic every two weeks to check the progress of the clear aligners.

How Long Will the Treatment Last?

Orthodontic treatment depends on the spacing of the teeth. The more spaced the teeth are, the longer the treatment will take, but the average treatment time lasts between 10 to 24 months. However, the treatment may be short if you had braces as a child.

How Much Do the Clear Aligners Cost?

Prices for aligners are set by the orthodontist, but they are more expensive than traditional braces. The final cost depends on the treatment times, the severity of the spacing and misalignment, and the number of teeth affected. Don’t worry, though, Olivia M. Rodrigues DDS will create a plan that is suitable for you.

Pros and Cons

Invisible aligners are the preferred orthodontic treatment option for most people, but they have their pros and cons.

• Comfort. Clear aligners fit comfortably in your mouth. Furthermore, they don’t come with the inconvenience that metal wires have. They are also smooth, with no cutting or irritation. They are attractive. Unlike the traditional braces, the invisible aligners do not have visible wires. They will go unnoticed even though you are wearing them.
• They are removable. Invisible braces can be removed when brushing, eating, and flossing, which can’t be done with the metal braces. Plus, they don’t trap food particles, as is the case with the traditional braces. This will help keep gum disease at bay.
• They require minimal maintenance. Clear aligners become dark over time, but you can freshen them with a simple scrub and bleach to eliminate stains.

• You may require attachments. Today, invisible braces require enamel ridges that stick to your affected teeth to provide proper support.
• Expensive. Clear braces are not covered by insurance, which means you have to cater to the cost.
• Tooth discomfort. Clear aligners can get uncomfortable every time you get a new set as the teeth need to readjust to the new shape.
• Avoid eating or drinking hot coffee or tea while wearing the aligners as it can cause staining.

Make an Appointment

At Olivia M. Rodrigues DDS clinic, we are a certified Invisalign® provider and can provide you with the best orthodontic treatment. Call to schedule an appointment.