Invisalign® : Key Things To Know

Invisalign® is a popular brand of clear aligners for people who want to discreetly straighten their teeth. Treatment is flexible, discreet, and effective, provided the patient is a good candidate and wears the aligners as directed. Here are some important things to know to help you get the most out of Invisalign treatment.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a clear aligner brand that uses a special SmarTrack™ material designed to move teeth more precisely and effectively. Like all clear aligners, Invisalign treatment involves patients wearing a series of custom-made, clear trays to straighten their teeth slowly. Patients receive new aligners every few weeks that progressively move their teeth into the desired position.

How treatment works

Treatment starts with a consultation, during which an oral health professional will take impressions for treatment planning and constructing the aligners. Aligners work by applying controlled force to different parts of teeth during different parts of treatment. Teeth move a little more with each new set of aligners. Treatment times vary by patient but average between 10 to 18 months.

The ideal candidate

Patients who do well with Invisalign are typically responsible teenagers and adults who want to straighten their teeth without the metal brackets and wires of traditional orthodontic treatment. However, they have to commit to properly caring for the aligners and wearing them exactly as directed. It is also important to note that clear aligners work best for mild to moderate cases of alignment issues.

When Invisalign may not work

Though Invisalign can be an effective way to straighten teeth, there are certain cases where patients may require more extensive orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners are usually not recommended for the following:

• Treating complicated cases
• Teeth that are too small or too rotated
• Fixing large gaps between teeth
• Severe bit issues
• Correcting intrusions or extrusions
• Patients with previous dental work, such as bridges

In addition, Invisalign is not usually recommended for young children who may have trouble keeping track of their aligners.

Rules for Invisalign

In general, even if one is a good candidate, there are three key rules to get the most out of Invisalign treatment.

Wear aligners most of the time

Dentists typically recommend that patients only take the aligners out when necessary, such as eating, drinking, or cleaning. Wearing the aligners for less than 20 hours a day can impact the effectiveness of treatment.

Keep aligners safe

Patients should keep their aligners in their portable case when not wearing their aligners. This practice can help wearers keep track of their aligners and protect them from being lost, dropped, or damaged in some way.

Keep aligners clean

Keeping aligners clean helps protect one’s dental health during treatment. Patients should follow the proper cleaning protocols to keep the aligners free of debris and bacteria that could cause problems for their teeth and gums.