Invisalign is a type of orthodontic care that makes use of a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually move your teeth. You may be a candidate for the Invisalign orthodontic system if you have a mild-to-moderate degree of malocclusion. The Invisalign orthodontic treatment process works somewhat differently from traditional braces and offers some unique advantages compared to metal orthodontic devices.

How Invisalign Works

The Invisalign system consists of a series of 24 or more separate clear plastic trays. The trays are custom-made for you using dental X-rays and impressions of your mouth taken by your dentist. About every two weeks, you will switch to a new aligner. Each new aligner gradually shifts your teeth into the ideal position in your jaws. The Invisalign system involves a personalized treatment plan and includes three-dimensional images of what your face and smile will look like when you have completed your treatment plan.

The Advantages of Using the Invisalign System

If you are an adult who already had braces as a child, you may only need Invisalign for as few as 10 weeks. For most people, the treatment period is 10 to 24 months. With the aligners, you can eat your usual foods. You take them out of your mouth while eating, which means that no food gets stuck. You also take them out to brush your teeth. Aside from these times, however, the aligners are kept on your teeth, and you wear them for at least 23 hours per day. The Invisalign aligners are not noticeable, even when speaking with someone up close. You can smile widely for photos, and nobody will notice you are receiving orthodontic treatment.

At Portage Park Dental Associates, we strive to be the best choice for Invisalign treatments.