Nov 7, 2009
Invisalign Invisible Braces – Do They Work?
The hottest new way to straighten teeth is a new treatment system called Invisalign. This system can eliminate the metallic smile that traditional braces cause. The Invisalign system uses a series of plastic molds as “aligners”.
The dentist or orthodontist will use a computer imaging system to design your invisalign braces. After taking bite impressions, the dentist will use the computer imaging system to create a series of clear plastic retainers. The first set will fit your teeth immediately and the successive ones will use gentle pressure to move your teeth to the correct spot.
Straightening teeth with invisalign can take anywhere from 18 to 30 different sets of retainers and each is worn for two weeks, except during meals. This invisible treatment method takes the same amount of time as braces.
The main benefit of invisalign braces is that most people do not want to spend two years with wires in their mouth. Many adults would rather have crooked teeth than have the metallic smile that wire braces create. The invisalign system is much more aesthetically pleasing than traditional braces.
Another significant benefit of invisalign over metallic braces is hygiene. The invisalign retainer can be removed and cleaned daily, and the teeth of the wearer can also be cleaned. Eating is also significantly easier as the invisalign retainer can be removed during meals.
One caution about invisalign is that since they are removable, people sometimes do not continue to wear them. This can significantly lengthen the time it should take to straighten teeth. Most people that have used the invisalign method have found it to be superior to the whole wire braces experience.
The cost of invisalign is 20 to 50 percent higher than traditional wire braces and some insurance plans may balk at the added expense. You may want to check your insurance plan to see if there are limitations on the methods of tooth straightening. If you are thinking about trying the invisalign method, you should consult with an orthodontist or dentist to learn more and to see if it is right for you or your family.
