Invisalign in Sioux Falls– The Clear Alternative to Braces
When you hear the word “orthodontics,” what comes to mind? Probably a young teenager whose teeth are covered by a latticework of metal. There are indeed many orthodontic patients who fit that description. However, there now exists an increasingly popular alternative to traditional metal braces: Invisalign® clear aligners.
As the name implies, Invisalign are made of almost invisible polyurethane plastic. Rather than being cemented or bonded to the teeth as metal or clear braces are, clear aligners are completely removable — for important social occasions, for eating, and, most importantly, for tooth-brushing and flossing. This advantage can also be a disadvantage: It means you must resist the temptation to take your aligners out more than is advised.
Here are some other advantages of the Invisalign system:
Improved Oral Hygiene — With an orthodontic appliance that is removable, you will be able to clean your teeth much more easily than if you were wearing metal braces.
A Discreet Look — If you consider your orthodontic treatment to be a private matter, or simply feel that metal braces don’t fit with your self-image, Invisalign treatment offers a nearly invisible alternative.
More Dietary Choices — To protect metal wires and braces, some diet modifications are necessary. With clear aligners, you can still bite into an apple or a crispy pizza crust.
Comfort — The thin, flexible material of which Invisalign is made will not irritate the soft tissues of the mouth, as metal wires and braces can.
Teeth-Grinding Protection — If you have a teeth-grinding or clenching habit, clear aligners can function as thin nightguards that will protect your teeth from excessive wear.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign clear aligners work the same way traditional braces do: by applying carefully controlled forces to teeth to move them into a better position. But they are not made of metal; instead, they are made of clear, flexible plastic.
Here’s how it works: Specialized computer software is used to design a plan for moving your teeth from their current positions into the best possible alignment. This movement will be broken down into perhaps several dozen stages. For each stage, the Invisalign company will manufacture two plastic mouth “trays” or “aligners,” one to fit over your top teeth and one for the bottom. You will wear this first set of trays for two weeks, for a minimum of 20 hours per day. You will then move on to the next set of aligners in your series to accomplish the next stage of gradual movement. You will keep doing this until your teeth are correctly aligned.
In the past several years, two features have been added to make Invisalign treatment in Sioux Falls a more appropriate orthodontic treatment method for teenagers. Special “eruption tabs” hold the appropriate amount of space open for molars that have not fully grown in. Invisalign for teens also comes with “compliance indicators” built into the aligner material, which fade with wear. This allows parents, dentists, and the teens themselves, to make sure the trays are being worn as prescribed. Invisalign in Sioux Falls can only be successful if this is the case.
Caring for Your Teeth During Invisalign Treatment
As mentioned above, one of the main advantages of the Invisalign system is that the trays can be removed for easy cleaning. So please don’t neglect to do this! You’ll need to brush your teeth after every meal or snack so that food and plaque do not get trapped in the aligners, which could promote tooth decay and gum disease. Your aligners, too, will have to be cleaned regularly; you can do this by brushing them and then rinsing them with lukewarm water.
Also, please keep in mind that while wearing clear aligners is very different from wearing braces, the importance of retaining your post-treatment results is exactly the same. You’ll want to be sure to wear your retainer(s) exactly as prescribed after your treatment is completed to protect your investment in a beautiful new smile.
For more information about Invisalign in Sioux Falls, call Designer Dentistry & Smiles at (605) 741-8107 !
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign clear aligners?
If you have mild to moderate teeth misalignment, Invisalign could be a great option. A consultation with our dentist will help determine if your teeth and jaw are suitable for clear aligners.
How long does Invisalign treatment usually take?
Invisalign treatment typically lasts between 12 and 18 months, depending on the complexity of your alignment. The dentist will provide a more specific timeline based on your individual treatment needs.
Will wearing Invisalign be painful or uncomfortable?
Invisalign aligners may cause mild discomfort, particularly when switching to a new set. The aligner pressure helps to move your teeth, but the discomfort usually fades within a few days.
Do I need to wear Invisalign all day, or only at night?
For optimal results, wear your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only for meals, drinks, and brushing your teeth.
Can I remove my aligners to eat and brush?
Yes, you should remove your Invisalign aligners before eating, drinking (except water), or brushing your teeth. This helps keep your aligners clean and prevents food or liquids from damaging them.
How often do I need to switch to the next set of aligners?
Typically, you will switch to the next set of aligners every one to two weeks. Your dentist will guide you on the proper timing to ensure effective treatment.
Will Invisalign affect my speech or cause a lisp?
Most people experience a slight lisp or changes in their speech when first wearing Invisalign, but these usually improve as they get used to wearing the aligners.
How do I keep my aligners clean and hygienic?
Clean your aligners daily by rinsing them with lukewarm water and brushing them gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can scratch these transparent aligners.
Can Invisalign fix gaps, crooked teeth, or bite issues?
Yes, Invisalign can effectively address gaps, crooked teeth, and bite issues, such as overbites or underbites. It’s a versatile treatment option for various dental alignment issues.
How much does Invisalign cost in Sioux Falls?
The cost of Invisalign in Sioux Falls depends on the complexity of your treatment. A consultation with our dentist will provide you with an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs.
Are there any risks, complications, or side effects with Invisalign?
Invisalign is generally safe, but potential risks include mild discomfort, gum irritation, or difficulty adjusting to the aligners. These issues usually resolve as you continue treatment.
Will I need a retainer after treatment to maintain results?
Yes, after finishing this orthodontic treatment, you will likely need to wear a retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Your dentist will guide you on retainer use.
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