How Does Invisalign Work to Straighten Your Teeth?

Posted On: March 23, 2023 by Dr. Fariba Kalantari

You may have heard the name Invisalign, but you might not know much about it or how it differs from straightening your teeth with braces. In this article, we’ll explain what Invisalign braces are and how they can help you get straight teeth and a more attractive smile. Continue reading to learn more.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an almost invisible clear aligner that fits snugly over your upper and lower teeth and does the work of conventional metal braces. Think of it as a thinner version of athletic mouthguards. Invisalign consists of a series of transparent, plastic, removable trays that fit comfortably over your teeth.

Invisalign is made from BPA-free plastic. Since this material is translucent, it’s hard to see that you’re wearing them. That’s just one of the reasons why so many adults and teenagers prefer Invisalign over standard metal braces.

Invisalign dentists create a three-dimensional computer model of your whole mouth. Then they use a series of custom-made aligner trays. Each of these aligners will shift your teeth in small increments until they reach the correct position. As you continue the treatment, you will need to replace the aligners every few weeks according to your dentist’s or orthodontist’s instructions.

How Does Invisalign Straighten Teeth?

Invisalign uses gentle pressure to move your teeth steadily, much like metal braces. Most users say it’s not painful, but they may feel a little discomfort. This is a natural sign that your aligners are working correctly. One caveat: you must wear your aligners for at least 20 hours a day.

Another reason why patients prefer Invisalign dental is that they can remove the aligners for meals, brushing and flossing, and drinking hot liquids (which cause the plastic to lose its shape). With traditional braces, they do not have that option and meals can be challenging.

Another advantage: Invisalign treatment is typically shorter than other orthodontic methods. Straightening your teeth with Invisalign generally takes six months less than with metal braces. However, the length of treatment time depends on the severity of your teeth and bite misalignment. For example, if you have mild dental misalignment, your total treatment time may be between six and 12 months. If your misalignment is more severe, your orthodontist or dentist might require you to wear the aligners for up to 18 months.

As an Invisalign patient, you must commit to your treatment because your compliance will further impact your treatment time. Remember that you must wear your aligners for at least 20 hours every day so they can do their job.

Why is Every Patient’s Treatment Time Different?

While the overall average treatment time is approximately nine to 12 months, each patient will experience differences in the time it takes for Invisalign to move all teeth into their final positions. The aligners are designed to cover your teeth entirely. That’s why it’s important to brush and floss after eating. Avoid getting food stuck between your teeth and underneath your aligners.

You will have to visit your dental or orthodontic office every four to six weeks to monitor your progress and receive your new set of aligners. You’ll use those aligners until it’s time for your next appointment. Count on multiple visits throughout your treatment.

How Does Invisalign Compare With Metal Braces?

Patients who choose Invisalign tend to have better gums than patients with fixed braces. They also have less chance of developing tooth decay and bad breath. This is because the aligners are removable. They allow you to brush and floss more easily and frequently.

If you choose Invisalign, you’ll need an additional step in your standard oral hygiene routine. You will soak your aligners in a specialized cleaning solution to keep them clean. You should also brush your aligners regularly.

Metal braces cover a large portion of your teeth. Food debris tends to get stuck within the crevices of braces. This can lead to an increase in the bacteria responsible for plaque and tartar cultivated by left-over foods.

With removable aligners, you don’t have to worry about food limitations. The one exception is sugary or starchy foods that cause tooth decay.

There are no metal wires and brackets with Invisalign. That alone makes them more comfortable and attractive than traditional braces. With Invisalign, you can still enjoy your favorite foods and smile as much as you want.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

The price varies depending on the length of your treatment, the severity of your condition, and the dentist treating you. Invisalign’s cost is usually comparable to conventional braces. The average price is about $5,000. Simpler Invisalign treatment can cost less. Just remember that the price will depend on several factors, and costs can increase based on your condition. Your dental insurance may also cover part of your treatment.

What Results Can You Expect From Invisalign?

Your Invisalign treatment outcome depends mainly on how crooked your teeth are, as well as how consistently you wear your aligners.

Invisalign can correct a variety of issues like gaps in the teeth, overbites, underbites, overcrowding, and crossbites. Before Invisalign, those more complicated problems could only be fixed with metal braces. But, as Invisalign technology advanced, so did its ability to deliver better results for people with complex issues.

The bottom line: Invisalign is an incredible way to straighten your teeth. Invisalign’s clear, almost invisible aligners can give you the smile you’ve always wanted without the metal mouth look you’ve avoided.

Invisalign has proven effective at straightening teeth In clinical research and thousands of orthodontic practices nationwide, Treatment is also far more comfortable. As you near the completion of your treatment regimen, your dentist or orthodontist will design a retention plan to help you keep your new smile for life.

When you’re ready to straighten your smile with Invisalign invisible aligners, contact Famous Hollywood Dental Care by calling 323.461.4676 or using our convenient online Make an Appointment form.