Invisalign

Invisalign in Westborough

If you are suffering from teeth alignment issues, your dentist may recommend orthodontic work. In the past, metal braces were the only option to straighten teeth. While metal braces work very well, they are not visually appealing. Many kids get teased by their classmates and friends, causing them to suffer from low self-esteem. This can impact their social life at a time where they want to fit in and be popular.

This doesn’t mean that a child has to forego dental work. There are more attractive options nowadays to help your child enjoy straighter teeth and a better smile. One of them is Invisalign.

Invisalign is a popular alternative to metal braces. Invisalign uses clear aligners to straighten teeth. Invisalign works well for mild to moderate alignment issues. It can also help fix underbites, overbites, crowded teeth and gapped teeth. If not fixed, these dental issues can lead to cavities, gum disease and jaw problems. Invisalign can prevent these problems from occurring.

Invisalign is recommended for older teens and adults. Is Invisalign the clear choice for you? Schedule a consultation with the friendly staff at Family Dental Westborough. Call our office at (508) 366-7450.

Young woman getting dental treatment. dental clinic.

How Does Invisalign Work?

The first step in the Invisalign process is to get photos of your teeth and face, as well as impressions and X-rays of your teeth. These records are then sent to Invisalign so the lab can create your custom-made aligners. The dentist will create a plan based on the current alignment of your teeth as well as the projected alignment of your teeth when treatment is completed. The lab will create various sets of aligners based on these details from your dentist.

Invisalign will scan the impressions and create 3D models your teeth with computer technology. They will then consult with your dentist to ensure the teeth movements are accurate. They will use these models to create the clear aligners that will move your teeth little by little until they reach their desired position. Invisalign will create a series of trays and send them to the dentist. This process can take about a month.

Each tray is slightly straighter than the teeth’s current position to place pressure on the teeth. This forces the teeth to move 1/10 mm. You will wear each tray for two weeks.

Invisalign aligners are removable, so you can take them out to eat, brush and floss. This allows you to eat your favorite foods and keep your teeth clean. However, you must keep the aligners in your mouth for as long as possible – at least 22 hours a day. If you don’t, your teeth won’t move as much as they need to, which can cause problems when you move on to the next tray.

Most patients use Invisalign for about 12-13 months, although this can be longer if your alignment issues are more complex. After the Invisalign process, your dentist will recommend that you wear retainers. Retainers keep your teeth from shifting, since nothing remains constant. You will likely need to wear retainers full time at first. If your teeth are staying aligned well, then you may just need to wear them at night.

Pros and Cons of Invisalign

Invisalign offers many benefits for those who desire straighter teeth. One of the biggest advantages is that the aligners are clear, so nobody will notice them.

Unlike metal braces, no brackets or wires are involved with Invisalign trays. This means there are no sharp edges that could poke your cheeks, gums or tongue and cause bleeding or pain.

By choosing Invisalign, you can keep your teeth cleaner. You don’t have to brush in between brackets and wires, so brushing is much easier.

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