What is Invisalign?

A perfect smile can come in many forms, but most people consider perfectly aligned, straight teeth the gold standard. Thanks to modern innovations in orthodontics, there are several ways to achieve that kind of perfect smile, and traditional braces with brackets and wires aren’t the only way to go anymore. Another way that orthodontists are helping patients straighten out their teeth and achieving oral health is using a system called Invisalign.

You might have heard of Invisalign before but might not be sure exactly what it is. Invisalign is a series of clear aligners, not unlike retainers, that slowly and subtly shift the teeth around in the mouth. They differ from traditional braces in a few ways. First, there are no brackets affixed to the teeth, and no wires in the mouth that need tightening. Instead the system comes as a series of trays that slip on to the teeth, much like a retainer would. Once an aligner has served its purpose and shifted the teeth, an orthodontist will provide the next one that has been made with slight adjustments so that the teeth continue to move.

Invisalign Aligners Can Be Removed, So No Dietary Restrictions!

One great feature about Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Patients are encouraged to wear them 20 to 22 hours each day, removing them only to eat and to clean the teeth. It is, however, nice to have the option to remove the aligners, even briefly, which is not an option with braces as they are cemented onto the teeth. Being able to slip off the aligners means that there are no dietary restrictions like you have with braces, so you can eat all the taffy and candied apples you want, and it makes cleaning and flossing your teeth so much easier (which you’ll have to do immediately after eating all that taffy!).

They Are Pretty Much Invisible

Another winning feature about Invisalign is that the aligners are made out of clear, BPA-free plastic. Because they are almost invisible, people often feel more confident in utilizing this system instead of metal braces. Whether the patients are teenagers or adults, there are social stigmas that are often associated with metal braces, and this can cause discomfort or embarrassment. Invisalign aligners are next to invisible and are hardly noticeable so people can smile with confidence, even while they are wearing the aligners. This feature can be especially appealing for adults who don’t want to spend a year or two feeling uncomfortable wearing metal braces and wires in their mouths.

While Invisalign is an excellent alternative to braces, the system does have its limitations. For example, if a person’s teeth are very crowded or crooked, a system of extraction and braces might be the only way to shift the teeth to straight. While an excellent option, Invisalign works best with mild to moderate problems.

Book A FREE Invisalign Consultation

Anyone wanting to explore the Invisalign system will have to have a consultation in order to discover whether the system will work for them.

If you are considering embarking on a mission to change your teeth from crooked or crowded to perfectly straight and healthy, book your consultation today at South Surrey Smiles. We will be happy to discuss your options with you and get you on the road to a perfect smile.