When you think about how far orthodontics has come in a relatively short amount of time, it’s due in large part to many of the amazing advances technology has made. Mack Orthodontics uses that to our advantage, by combining the latest techniques with state-of-the-art equipment and a talented team to give patients a superior orthodontic experience. Part of that is providing treatment options that are convenient, comfortable, and efficient. Invisalign is a perfect example of this!
If you’re unfamiliar with the Invisalign clear aligner system, it’s our most popular alternative to traditional braces. Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses clear removable aligners to shift the teeth into more optimal positions. For teens and adults who prefer a more subtle option that won’t interfere with their daily life, Invisalign can be an excellent choice.
We often hear from people who are interested in learning more about improving their smile, but aren’t sure about committing to treatment with braces. If this sounds like you, Invisalign could be just what you’re looking for! The removable aligners offer a freedom and flexibility that traditional braces just can’t match, giving patients a rewarding orthodontic experience and superior results.
But what exactly is Invisalign? Keep reading below for more information on how this innovative system works to straighten your smile.
(Want to see if you’re a good fit for Invisalign? Call 336-227-5594 to schedule a FREE consultation!)
What is Invisalign?
When it comes to correcting orthodontic issues, we can use either fixed or removable appliances. Metal, clear, and self-ligating braces are what we consider fixed orthodontic appliances, meaning they are applied directly to the teeth, and can only be removed by a trained orthodontic specialist. Invisalign, on the other hand, is a removable appliance. Although the aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth, they are completely removable and are not attached to the teeth themselves in any way.
Invisalign aligners may look quite simple at first glance, but they actually pack a lot of punch thanks to the special thermoplastic resin they’re made of. This material keeps them comfortable while still being strong enough to straighten smiles. In order to do so, patients must wear their aligners for a certain number of hours each day. They also need to be changed out at predetermined intervals decided on by Dr. Mack.
How does Invisalign work?
Once Dr. Mack has determined that you’re a good fit for Invisalign, we’ll begin mapping out a precise treatment plan using a highly detailed 3D scan of your teeth and gums to plot the exact movements we want your teeth to make. Following this, we can start custom-designing your new aligners!
Invisalign’s special SmartTrack® material makes aligners durable and almost invisible, something our patients love. They’re made to fit your unique smile, so the trays will fit snugly but comfortably over your teeth. The total number of aligners needed varies from case to case, but most patients will need anywhere from 10 to 48 to produce the best results. Treatment times will also vary, but average 6-18 months or so. The treatment plan Dr. Petrunic customizes for you will give us an idea of how long your own treatment is likely to take.
You play an important role in your success with Invisalign. That’s because with removable aligners, it’s up to you to wear them as directed by Dr. Mack. For the system to work properly, aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours each day throughout the treatment process. You’ll also need to be vigilant about switching your aligners out for the next in the series every 1-2 weeks in order to keep up with the movements your teeth are making. Failure to comply with the doctor’s recommendations can lead to poor results or additional treatment time.
Regular check-ups in our Burlington office are another essential part of the treatment process, so you should plan to see us for follow-up appointments about every 4-8 weeks. These will be fairly brief since there are no appliances to adjust. During these visits, Dr. Mack will check how your teeth are moving and ensure your treatment is on track, so it’s important not to skip them.
Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign tends to work best for teen and adult patients who have mild to moderate orthodontic issues. If it turns out that you have a complex or severe case, it may require more precise tooth control than a removable aligner is able to achieve. In the event that a different method of treatment would be more suitable for you, Dr. Mack will discuss those options with you during your consultation.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
There are lots of reasons to love Invisalign! Not having any food restrictions is a pretty big deal for many of our patients, since those in braces must avoid anything crunchy or chewy during treatment. Even though the effort is worth it in the end, it can be a pretty big learning curve. With Invisalign, you simply take your aligner out whenever you eat or drink anything other than water, then put it back in when you’re done! This makes dental hygiene a cinch, too. Brushing and flossing with braces can be frustrating, due to all the nooks, crannies, and bands. But Invisalign aligners are removed before you brush and floss as normal, so keeping your teeth and gums clean couldn’t be easier.
What happens once Invisalign treatment is complete?
No matter how you treat your orthodontic issues, your teeth will always remember their previous place in your mouth, and naturally gravitate towards them over time if there’s nothing in place to stop them. This is why wearing a retainer is so important for every orthodontic patient! Once you’ve completed your Invisalign treatment, our office will provide you with a retainer. For the longest-lasting results, you should always wear it exactly as directed by Dr. Mack.
Improve your oral health with Invisalign and Mack Orthodontics
There’s a reason Invisalign is so popular with patients young and old! This exciting system is changing the way people think about orthodontic treatment all over the world. If you’re interested in learning more about how Invisalign can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, get in touch with us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.