What Are Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign® is an innovative new corrective method used to help straighten and re-align your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® is often undetectable, and most people will hardly even be able to tell that you are wearing them.

Invisalign® is also different from traditional braces in that they are removable. In fact, the ability to remove them is what makes them truly unique from standard braces. As your teeth straighten and re-align, you will change the Invisalign® aligners you are wearing so that little by little, your teeth will move into the place they should be.

Invisalign® aligners are made from computer generated pictures and images that map out your tooth movements. Each set of aligners is generally worn for approximately two weeks, before your teeth are in place and ready for the next set. One of the main benefits of using these aligners is that patients feel this gradual transition is much more comfortable and less painful than having to have traditional braces manually tightened and adjusted.

Treatment using Invisalign® aligners is generally accomplished within 12 or so months. Many patients find that their treatment is accomplished in a much shorter time frame however, completely finishing their treatment within about six months.

Unfortunately, Invisalign® is not right for everyone. Most cosmetic dentists or orthodontists will not recommend Invisalign® for those patients with severely crooked or misaligned teeth. The treatment is most effective on those patients with minor dental issues, which is why treatment is accomplished so quickly.

A brief examination from your dentist or orthodontist will help you to determine whether not Invisalign® is right for you. This form of treatment is often more expensive than traditional braces are, so if cost is an issue for you, you may want to reconsider Invisalign® as a method for corrective dental problems that you are experiencing.