Invisalign®
Invisalign® offers a modern, discreet way to achieve the smile you've always wanted. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth, providing a comfortable and convenient orthodontic solution.
Your Invisalign® Dentist in Chester, VA
Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to move your teeth into their desired position gradually. These aligners are made of smooth, virtually invisible plastic, making them a popular choice for teens and adults who want to improve their smile without the noticeable appearance of metal braces.
During your consultation at Chester Road Family Dental, we will discuss your orthodontic goals, evaluate your dental condition, and help you decide which treatment option is best for you. Ready to transform your smile? Schedule today!
Post-Treatment Care
First 3-6 Months After Invisalign®
After completing your Invisalign® treatment, wearing your retainers day and night for the first three months is crucial. Only remove them for eating and brushing your teeth. After this period, wear them only at night to maintain your smile. Consistent nighttime wear is essential to prevent your teeth from shifting. If you neglect to wear your retainers regularly, they will become less effective.
Retainers typically last up to two years, but they may wear out sooner, especially if you unknowingly grind or clench your teeth, a common issue for over 85% of the population. The first set of retainers, used intensively for the initial three months, is particularly prone to stretching. Irregular use of retainers and other uncommon factors can also lead to premature stretching. Regardless of the cause, your teeth may shift even if you follow the retainer usage instructions.
Every 6 Months
Every six months, try on a new duplicate retainer. If the new retainers feel noticeably tighter, it indicates that your current set has stretched. To prevent your teeth from shifting, switch to a new set.
Having only one set of retainers makes it difficult to detect teeth shifting until it becomes obvious, at which point it is too late to prevent changes in your smile. Getting new retainers through a scan or impression will stop further shifting, but it will not realign your teeth to their previous ideal position.
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How does the Invisalign® process work?
- Initial Consultation: During your first visit, we will discuss your orthodontic needs and determine whether Invisalign® is the right choice. We will take digital impressions and X-rays to create a precise 3D image of your teeth.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Using the 3D images, we will develop a customized treatment plan that outlines the movement of your teeth and the duration of your treatment.
- Aligner Fabrication: A series of custom aligners will be created specifically for you based on your treatment plan. Each aligner will be worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next set.
- Wearing Your Aligners: You will wear your aligners for 20-22 hours daily, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Regular check-ups will be scheduled to monitor your progress.
- Completion and Retention: Once your treatment is complete, you will receive retainers to maintain your new smile and prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position.
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Invisalign® vs. braces - what's the difference?
When it comes to straightening your teeth, you have options: Invisalign® and traditional braces. Both treatments aim to give you a beautiful, straight smile, but they have some key differences. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which option is best for you.
Invisalign®
- Appearance: Invisalign® aligners are clear and virtually invisible, making them a discreet option for orthodontic treatment. Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
- Comfort: Made from smooth plastic, Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth comfortably. There are no metal brackets or wires to cause irritation.
- Removability: Invisalign® aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, drink, brush, and floss without any restrictions. This makes maintaining oral hygiene easier compared to traditional braces.
- Convenience: Because the aligners are removable, there are no food restrictions. You can enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
- Maintenance: The aligners require regular cleaning, and you’ll need to switch to a new set every one to two weeks to continue the progression of your treatment.
- Treatment Duration: Invisalign® treatment duration varies, but it often takes about the same amount of time as traditional braces, depending on the case’s complexity.
- Follow-Up Visits: With Invisalign®, fewer office visits are typically needed, as you can change aligners at home and only need periodic check-ups to monitor progress.
Traditional Braces
- Appearance: Braces consist of metal brackets and wires attached to the teeth. While effective, they are more noticeable than Invisalign aligners. Ceramic braces, which are less visible, are also an option.
- Comfort: Braces can cause discomfort, especially after adjustments. The metal components can sometimes irritate the inside of your mouth.
- Permanence: Braces are fixed appliances that stay in place throughout the treatment. This ensures continuous pressure on the teeth, which can be advantageous for complex cases.
- Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing require more effort with braces due to the brackets and wires. Special tools like interdental brushes can help maintain cleanliness.
- Food Restrictions: Certain foods, such as sticky or hard items, must be avoided to prevent damage to the braces.
- Maintenance: Braces require regular adjustments by your orthodontist, typically every 4-6 weeks, to ensure the teeth are moving correctly.
- Treatment Duration: The treatment time for braces varies depending on the severity of the dental issues but generally ranges from 18 months to 3 years.
- Follow-Up Visits: Regular visits to the orthodontist are necessary for adjustments and to monitor the progress of the treatment.
Choosing between Invisalign® and traditional braces depends on your orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Invisalign is an excellent option for those seeking a discreet, flexible treatment, while traditional braces may be more suitable for complex dental issues that require precise and consistent adjustments.
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Who can use Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is suitable for treating a variety of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. It is a great option for both teens and adults who prefer a less noticeable alternative to traditional braces. During your consultation, we will assess your specific needs and determine if Invisalign® is the best solution for you.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about Invisalign®, please contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
