The world of cosmetic dentistry has come a long way from uncomfortable and unsightly braces. While braces are often a great option for kids, what adult wants to be walking around with metal braces on? Invisalign is a revolutionary tooth straightening system that has allowed more patients than ever to get a smile they love, but how does it work? Keep reading below to learn more!
Invisalign Consultation
Invisalign works for a lot of people, but it’s not the right option for everyone. That’s why any potential Invisalign patient should first have a consult with a cosmetic dentist familiar with Invisalign. They can examine the current state of your teeth, take measurements, and determine if Invisalign will be a good option to transform your smile.
Invisalign Aligners
Once you’ve been assessed and cleared to use Invisalign, you’ll receive a set of Invisalign aligners. Aligners are changed out every 2 weeks for a slightly tighter tray. Each tray works to shift your teeth in the right direction a little bit at a time. When the two weeks are up and you move on to a new tray, it usually feels snug at first. By the end of the two weeks, your teeth will be moved and ready for the next set of aligners. It depends on your specific situation how many sets of aligners you’ll need to complete your Invisalign treatment.
Attachments and Elastics
Attachments are tooth-colored bumps that get bonded to certain teeth. They help keep the aligner trays in place without changing the appearance of your teeth. In some cases, elastics are used too. Elastics hook onto the attachments to encourage your upper and lower teeth to continue moving in the right direction. Clear elastics can be used so they won’t be as visible to people when you’re talking. The exact placement and number of elastics required may change throughout your treatment. Your cosmetic dentist can assess how your teeth are moving with the Invisalign treatment to prescribe elastic use as needed.
Creating Space for the Teeth to Move
Some patients actually lack the room in their mouth for their teeth to move in the right direction for a straighter smiler. In this case, a procedure called Interproximal Reduction is preformed by a cosmetic dentist. This procedure adds more space between specific sets of teeth, giving them more room to move as your treatment continues. This procedure is generally quick, easy, and not uncomfortable for the patient. Nitrous oxide can be used if you’re struggling with anxiety surrounding the procedure.
Cosmetic Dentists at Whiting Dental Arts
If you’d like to learn more about how
Invisalign can help transform your smile, contact Whiting Dental Arts today! We’re the leading cosmetic dentist on the Northshore of MA for Invisalign, teeth whitening, and so much more.
Schedule a consultation to get started.
