These clear aligners straighten your teeth over time by gradually shifting your tooth placement without needing visible wires. The process is virtually painless and requires little upkeep compared to the extensive hygiene routine needed with typical braces.
If you’re interested in straightening teeth with a virtually invisible alternative to braces, keep reading as we unpack the details of Invisalign to help determine if it’s right for you!
How Does Invisalign Work?
The Invisalign treatments at Orthobar begin with a consultation and a 3D scan of your mouth. Our orthodontists will discuss the pros and cons of clear aligners, give you an overview of how the process works, and determine if aligners are the best fit for you.
From there, we’ll send the imaging of your mouth straight to the Invisalign manufacturer so they can produce your first set of aligners that is meticulously planned by Dr. Petersen and Dr. Grahl. Each set of Invisalign aligners is made of medical-grade plastic, custom-fit for your specific needs, and will only work for you!
We’ll also follow up with you every 6-8 weeks to ensure the process goes smoothly. The orthodontist will check in to determine if you are following the directions correctly and answer any questions you may have.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Last?
The time you need to wear your clear aligners depends on the needs we’re treating.
If you only need mild teeth straightening, the process will take less time than if your jaw needs better alignment from an overbite or underbite.
Our orthodontists will work with you to develop an individual treatment plan and give you a detailed timeline of the treatment’s duration. Invisalign patients typically need their aligners for 12-18 months, but you might have to wear them a little longer.
The good news is that you see results long before your treatment is over!
Many people who use their aligners say they can see a difference in their smiles within a few months. Since the aligners are clear, wires or elastic bands never hide your new smile.
Is It Hard to Maintain Invisalign Aligners?
Not at all!
Invisalign aligners simplify teeth straightening because they remove the worry surrounding the need for cleaning around brackets and wires that braces typically have.
We recommend wearing your aligners daily for at least 20-22 hours. It would be best to only take them out while eating, drinking, or performing your dental hygiene routine.
Before heading to bed, you should wash your clear aligners with a soft-bristled brush (not your toothbrush) and clear liquid soap. This process helps remove any stray food particles or buildup that may have occurred throughout the day.
If you notice your aligners becoming dirty more frequently, increase how often you wash them.
How Do I Know if Invisalign Is Right for Me?
First and foremost, you should consult us at Orthobar before making decisions about Invisalign.
While Invisalign works for most people, there may be other more suitable options in some cases. Our orthodontists are incredibly knowledgeable about clear aligners and should be able to tell you if you’re a good fit for Invisalign right away.
Another thing to consider is how proactive you want to be in transforming your smile. Clear aligners often perform as well as braces when used properly, but forgetting to put them back in after a meal or not thoroughly cleaning them every day could impact their performance.
You ultimately control how effective the Invisalign treatment will be for you.
Invisalign is also an excellent option for older teens and active adults who participate in sports or strenuous physical activity. Since aligners don’t use wires or brackets, they won’t cut the inside of your lips.
Whether you’re an adult (or older teen) looking for a practically invisible option or simply want to spend less time straightening your teeth than typical braces, Invisalign could be a perfect fit!
Get in Touch With Us at Orthobar for All Your Invisalign Needs!
At Orthobar, we love helping Las Vegas transform its smile. Whether you’re set on clear aligners or scoping out your options, our expert team is committed to delivering top-notch treatment from the moment you walk through our doors.
Take the step towards a confident smile by filling out our online form for a complimentary consultation to schedule an appointment today!
Your journey to a brilliant smile starts here with Orthobar.
