What is Invisalign?
The Invisalign system is a series of removable, custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth so they can slowly make them straighter. The clear aligners gradually shift your teeth until they move into their desired position. As an alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign is less noticeable and more comfortable to wear and can correct crooked teeth in less time than conventional braces.
Adults and teenagers like the versatility and convenience of Invisalign orthodontics because you can remove the trays to eat and brush your teeth with ease. Invisalign makes it possible to continue a good oral hygiene routine while realigning crooked teeth.
How does the Invisalign process work?
At your first consultation, Dr. Halverson and the team explain the Invisalign process and answer your questions about the treatment. You may also receive:
- A comprehensive oral exam and cancer screening
- Dental X-rays
- Explanation of how the aligners work
- Discussion of your desired treatment results
During the discussion about the length of the process, specific to your individual needs, Dr. Halverson creates a customized treatment plan that shows exactly how your teeth are expected to adjust with the Invisalign system. After she has the specially designed aligners made for your mouth, you wear them 20-22 hours each day. You can remove them to eat and brush your teeth.
How long does it take to straighten my teeth with Invisalign?
The length of your treatment depends on how much your teeth need to move, and how often you wear the aligner. In most cases, treatment takes 12-18 months, but many teens and adults see a difference within several weeks of wearing their aligners.
What types of problems can Invisalign correct?
Invisalign can correct a variety of cosmetic and functional problems, from mild to severe crowding. Dr. Halverson expertly evaluates your mouth and tells you if the Invisalign system is the best choice for straightening your teeth. The system can typically correct the following conditions:
- Overbites, where upper teeth bite over lower teeth
- Underbites, where lower teeth protrude past the upper front teeth
- Open bite, where upper and lower teeth do not meet correctly
- Crowded teeth that occur from lack of space in your mouth
- Crossbite, where upper and lower jaws do not align properly
- Gaps between your teeth
If left uncorrected, all of these issues can contribute to poor oral health -- as a result of excessive plaque accumulation in overlapping teeth -- and to other problems chewing and speaking correctly. Find out if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Call Dr. Halverson’s office or schedule a consultation using the online booking feature.
