Invisalign Clear Aligner Orthodontic Treatment

Invisalign® is a new alignment procedure in the field of orthodontics. Compared to braces used since the 1800s, Invisalign has a lot of advantages. Its late development includes the use of later and more advanced technologies. Here is a quick discussion about Invisalign orthodontic treatments.

Invisalign as an alignment system

The process of teeth alignment is more than an appearance issue. The need for an alignment treatment is because of problems that make it difficult to speak, bite, and chew. Dental braces have been the only aligner treatment available for the longest time. But, the development of Invisalign in the late 1990s opened new doors in orthodontics.

How Invisalign works

Invisalign features a different design compared to traditional metal braces. Dental braces use metal brackets and wires to clutch the teeth and pull them into place. The wires running through the frame are adjusted regularly to keep the tension of the brace. Invisalign uses a removable tray to act as a brace. A tight-fitting resin tray is worn on both the upper and lower rows and is linked to each other using elastics. Invisalign uses a particular kind of thermoplastic resin that is strong and durable.

Invisalign procedure

The process of getting Invisalign trays involves several steps. The first thing that dentists do is determine if the client qualifies for Invisalign. Patients with periodontitis, dental bridges, and TMJ disorder do not fit this procedure. The dentist can offer a different orthodontic treatment if the client does not qualify.

If the patient is fit for Invisalign, the next step is to take pictures, digital scans, and panoramic X-rays. The laboratory visualizes the patient’s impression and creates a digital model. They make the removable tray via 3D printing based on the client’s dental impression. The next scheduled appointment is for fitting the custom aligners. They will also add other attachments needed to hold the trays in place.

Invisalign care and maintenance

One advantage of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. This allows users to remove their aligners when brushing their teeth and flossing. Yet, removable trays need more care to ensure that they are clean and hygienic. There are some simple tips to follow to maintain the quality of the Invisalign trays.

The simplest and easiest step to care for Invisalign trays is to clean them regularly. Establish a routine and schedule for cleaning the removable trays. It is ideal to use regular toothpaste and a soft brush to scrub and avoid bacteria buildup. But, avoid abrasive substances and materials such as mouthwash, soap, or denture cleaners. Strong liquids can affect the quality of the material and turn the resin dull instead of clear.

Soaking and rinsing the aligners can also help reduce bacteria buildup. Remember to wash lingering saliva or plaque from the trays before keeping them in their case. Also, do not forget to pat them dry. Bacteria and germs can breed quickly in moist environments.

The ideal candidate for Invisalign

This teeth-straightening system can help people with mild to moderate dental problems. The patient should follow instructions and guidelines well. Being responsible is also a requirement. Being able to tolerate wearing the aligners for 22 hours a day can also help. Removing the aligners while eating and performing dental care practices can lead to misplacing aligners.

Older teenagers and adults are ideal candidates for Invisalign. These patients know how to care for the aligners and keep them secure while eating or practicing dental hygiene. Hard cases can keep the aligners in good condition. It prevents the loss or breakage of the aligners.

A patient with TMJ problems, dental implants, or dental bridges may result in ill-fitting aligners. The dentist can help the patient by working around the problems. Dental X-rays and 3D imaging can make this process easier. Severe cases will need another type of teeth-straightening system like traditional braces. Below are the conditions that clear aligners can treat:

• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crooked teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Dental gaps
• Protruding teeth

The dentist will perform a comprehensive examination of the teeth and gums. This assessment will determine how severe these conditions are. A qualified candidate can have the aligners. These will be custom-fit for the patient’s treatment.

The future is Invisalign

Invisalign is a good alternative to traditional metal braces. It gives patients a different option or choice for orthodontic treatments. Recent technology such as 3D printing opened the door for Invisalign. A few more years of further research can produce better Invisalign designs for you.

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