Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for children and adolescents. More and more adults are opting for orthodontic treatment to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. One popular option for adults is Invisalign. Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses trays to straighten teeth more discreetly than traditional braces. This blog post will discuss why more and more adults in Duluth, MN, are choosing to get Invisalign for their orthodontic treatment.
The Benefits Of Invisalign As An Adult
Discreetness:
One critical reason why adults opt to get Invisalign is due to the nearly invisible set of aligners. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic that is nearly impossible to see when worn. This is an important factor for adults who want to straighten their teeth but do not want to be embarrassed by wearing metal braces.
Comfort:
Invisalign aligners are comfortable to wear compared to traditional braces. These retainers are made from smooth plastic which doesn’t inflame the gums or cheeks. Also, there are no brackets or wires that can break and cause discomfort. Invisalign aligners are removable, which means that patients can take them out while eating or brushing their teeth.
Convenience:
Invisalign aligners are easy to maintain. Patients can just take off their set of aligners when eating, brushing, or flossing, contributing to good oral hygiene during their orthodontic treatment. Also, there are fewer visits to the orthodontist during Invisalign treatment than with traditional braces.
Predictable results:
Invisalign uses advanced 3D imaging technology that allows Dr. Hammer to create a customized treatment plan for each patient. This technology allows patients to see a virtual representation of their teeth before, during, and after the treatment. This means that patients can have a clear idea of what their teeth will look like at the end of the treatment.
What to Expect During Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of clear aligner trays that gradually shift teeth into their desired positions. For the majority of our patients, Dr. Hammer recommends weekly aligner changes. Patients are required to wear their aligners for 20-22 hours daily in order for the aligners to effectively move teeth to the desired positions. Braces are always bonded to your teeth, and so the desired orthodontic forces are always present. That’s a main reason why braces are effective! In order for aligners to be equally as effective, they must be worn for at least 20 hours every day.
Most people find Invisalign comfortable to wear, and the aligners are virtually invisible, so no one can tell you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. Most patients report that it takes about a week or so to get used to wearing and speaking with the Invisalign aligners in. The mouth is a sensitive place, so it is normal to notice small irritations on your lips, cheeks, or tongue during that first week while your mouth adjusts to having the aligners in place.
Invisalign typically requires fewer office visits than traditional braces, making the entire orthodontic treatment process more convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Attachments?
Attachments are a normal part of any aligner treatment. You can expect your attachments to go on at your first appointment. Even though we may remove and move some of the attachments throughout treatment you can expect them to be on until your aligner treatment is complete!
Attachments are made of a tooth-colored composite material similar to what your dentist would use for a tooth-colored filling. When you are done with your treatment, we gently polish the attachments-doing no harm to your enamel. The attachments are individually designed by Dr. Hammer virtually to help make specific movements of your teeth. If you look closely at your attachments, you can see they are all different shapes and sizes! Attachments help make more surface area on your teeth so that your aligners can snap into place and make the most effective and efficient movements.
How Do I Clean My Aligners?
We recommend brushing your aligners twice a day. Use only a soft toothbrush and water to gently brush your aligners.
To learn more, watch this video. How To : Clean my Retainer or Clear Aligner
What Are Chewies/Clenchies and Do I Actually Need To Use Them?
Chewies and Clenchies are a very important part in making sure that your treatment goes as fast and as efficiently as possible. You should be using your Chewy or Clenchy a few times a day, especially the first few days of a new tray. These ensure the aligners are fully seated around the teeth and attachment in order to predictably move the teeth to the desired positions.
To learn more, watch these videos:
How To: Using my Chewy/Clenchy for my Clear Aligners
Problem Solved: Tooth is not Tracking in Gap in my Clear Aligner
How Do I Remove My Aligners?
Everyone has their own tips and tricks for removing their aligners, but we find the best way is to use your index finger to remove the tray from the inside of the farthest back teeth first. A helpful tip is to use your right hand to remove the left side and your left hand to remove the right side. Once you loosen the tray from the farthest back teeth, then move your way forward. If the back is released, you should be able to snap the tray off from the front.
To learn more, watch this video. How To : Remove my Clear Aligner
Conclusion:
Invisalign is a clear choice for adults seeking orthodontic treatment. It is a discreet, comfortable, and convenient option that provides predictable results. If you are an adult in Duluth, MN, looking to straighten your teeth and achieve a beautiful smile, consider Invisalign. Schedule your free initial consultation at True North Orthodontics to find out if Invisalign is right for you.
