Invisalign in Washington, PA
Undergoing orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to leave you feeling embarrassed by visible braces. These days, clear braces like Invisalign offer patients a discreet alternative to noticeable metal brackets and wires. In just one year, on average, you can benefit from well-aligned teeth and a more confident smile with Invisalign.
How does Invisalign work? And how does it compare to traditional metal braces? Your dental team takes a look at these and other important questions below.
How Invisalign Works
The FDA-approved clear braces system uses a series of plastic aligners to place focused pressure on different parts of the bite throughout treatment. Invisalign relies on the proven orthodontic principles of producing gradual movement through sustained pressure, but without the noticeable hardware required by conventional braces.
Invisalign trays are created specifically for your bite. Once you begin treatment, you need to wear each tray for the recommended 20 to 22 hours each day. Switch to the next aligner in the series every two weeks, gradually progressing through treatment on the way to your new, properly-aligned bite.
Just like with traditional braces, you will need to wear a retainer after the Invisalign treatment is complete. Fortunately, the Vivera retainer is just as discreet as your Invisalign trays -- so you can continue to smile confidently while maintaining your beautiful results.
Invisalign vs. Metal Braces
Even though Invisalign and conventional braces both produce the same end results, your experience throughout the treatment is completely different.
First of all, there’s aesthetics to consider. Clear braces are virtually undetectable, allowing you to live confidently throughout treatment. As long as you’re wearing the trays for the recommended 20 to 22 hours each day, you can even take them out before big events to continue speaking and smiling with total confidence.
And speaking of removability, brushing and flossing are just as easy with removable Invisalign. Simply slip out the aligners to thoroughly brush and floss at night and in the morning. Traditional metal braces require special cleaning techniques, which younger patients may be resistant to learn. Oral health and hygiene stay strong with Invisalign.
You can also continue to eat what you like throughout treatment, simply removing the Invisalign trays before meals and snacks. Wearers of conventional braces must completely eliminate certain foods from their diets -- but you will feel free to crunch through fresh apples and corn on the cob with Invisalign.
Is Invisalign Right for You?
Invisalign corrects most common orthodontic issues. Crowded and gapped teeth as well as crossbite, underbite, and overbite are all treatable with the clear braces system. Patients should be in good oral health before undergoing orthodontic treatment. Instances of tooth decay or gum disease should be treated before or alongside Invisalign.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
The only way to know for sure whether or not Invisalign is a good option for your smile is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. The team at Vaughan, Yokum & Roman is pleased to offer this option to patients in and around Washington, PA. We invite you to request an appointment today!