How Do Invisalign Clear Aligners Work?

Invisalign works with plastic aligners that fit over the teeth to straighten teeth bit by bit. The aligners are removed during oral hygiene routines, making brushing and flossing much more accessible than traditional metal braces. And because they are removable while eating, you can keep all the foods you love.

What Issues Can Invisalign Correct?

Invisalign can correct the same issues as traditional orthodontics. Read below for some common dental problems that aligners can repair:

• Gaps – significant gaps between teeth often occur from missing teeth or abnormal jaw growth.
• Overcrowding – very little space for the teeth in the mouth. Teeth tend to overlap, making it difficult to maintain oral hygiene. It can cause tooth decay and increase the chance of gum disease.
• Overbite – the upper teeth project further than the lower teeth causing jaw pain and TMJ disorder.
• Underbite – the lower teeth project further than the upper teeth. Learn more here.
• Crossbite – the top teeth bite on the inside of the bottom teeth, which leads to uneven wear and bone erosion.

What does the treatment involve?

At Maiden Lane Dental, your dentists devise a treatment plan. Our technician will take several photographs, digital scans, and digital X-rays of your teeth.

It allows the dentist to move your teeth digitally on the monitor and view the jaw from every angle. This technology foresees how Invisalign will change facial aesthetics when the treatment is done.

We send these records to the laboratory, where two or more sets of clear aligners are made to fit your teeth using advanced 3-D imaging technology. The process may take four to five weeks.

Once the aligners come from the laboratory, we will start the process by inserting the first set. We will give you clear instructions on how to put them on and remove them. Each set of aligners should be worn for one to two weeks, according to your teeth alignment treatment plan. Your dentist will also advise you to wear them as much as possible for the treatment to be effective.

The total treatment period can last from 12 to 18 months. During the period, you may use between 20 and 50 clear aligners.

What Should I Consider When Wearing Invisalign?

Invisalign trays must be worn the recommended 22 hours daily, except while eating and drinking. Follow this to avoid problems in the overall treatment time. Removing the aligners when consuming any food or drink is essential. Debris gets trapped inside the trays, leading to tooth decay.

You can expect to feel soreness the first few days after receiving new trays. This light achiness is normal and good news as it proves that the trays are doing their job.