Invisalign – Glastonbury, CT

Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

When you picture orthodontics, you likely imagine a teen with brackets and wires affixed to their teeth. These traditional smile alignment systems work by using the wires to put pressure on brackets that gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. This process can take 12 months to two or more years to complete. Once the visible parts of teeth are in their correct alignment, the parts of the teeth not visible, the roots, are still shifting into this new position. This is why patients typically need to use retainers for one or more years following orthodontic treatment. Invisalign works in a similar way, but utilizes plastic trays to create the gentle pressure necessary to shift teeth rather than brackets and wire.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Like traditional braces, Invisalign works by placing pressure on the surfaces of teeth to create tooth movement. A series of clear, plastic aligners are crafted in an Invisalign lab. Each set of aligners represents the smile one step closer to the desired end result. Patients wear their aligner(s) for about two weeks. Then, they exchange their current set of alignment trays for the next in the series. They will need to visit our dental office every six weeks to two months, so we can ensure their smile is shifting according to plan. These appointments are typically brief, and they give us the opportunity to adjust the treatment plan to ensure patients achieve their desired results.

Benefits of Invisalign

Did you know that more than 16 million patients have chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign? If you are considering following in their footsteps, then you’ll be happy to hear that there are several benefits that come with clear aligners, including:

Virtually Invisible Treatment

Although traditional braces offer several benefits of their own, they aren’t the most aesthetically-pleasing. As a result, many image-conscious teens and adults are interested in a more discreet orthodontic treatment, like Invisalign. Since the aligners are clear, patients can smile confidently throughout their entire treatment. Plus, if there comes a time when they need to be removed, like to take a new passport photo, that’s not a problem!

Improved Comfort

Simply put, Invisalign aligners are considerably more comfortable than traditional bracket and wire orthodontics. That’s because – instead of being comprised of metal components – they are crafted from smooth plastic. Plus, they are custom-made to fit the unique contours of each patient’s mouth, which helps prevent soft tissue irritation and mouth sores. So, your road to a straighter smile with Invisalign won’t just be discreet; it will be comfortable!

Shorter Average Treatment Timeline

Another considerable perk: Invisalign has a shorter average treatment timeline than traditional braces. In fact, many patients achieve their dream smile in just 12 months! That said, your teeth-straightening journey may be shorter or longer. It really depends on factors unique to your case, including the severity of your misalignment. Don’t worry – we will review important information like this at your consultation. That way, you have an idea of the time you need to invest upfront.

Less Time in the Treatment Chair

Whether you have a busy semester ahead or you have a big project you’re working on at the office, monthly orthodontic appointments may not fit into your schedule. Fortunately, Invisalign doesn’t require monthly adjustment visits! Instead, you’ll be given several sets of aligners at once so you can progress through portions of your treatment plan at home. Then, you’ll come in every 6-8 weeks so we can make sure your teeth are tracking properly.

No Dietary Restrictions

It’s no secret that traditional braces come with numerous dietary restrictions. While it’s for a good reason (it helps prevent orthodontic emergencies), it also can be a bit of a nuisance. The good news is that Invisalign aligners are removable, so you don’t need to make drastic changes to your diet! Simply do your best to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, and exercise caution with extremely crunchy and sticky foods.

Hassle-Free Oral Hygiene

It’s common for patients with traditional braces to buy special oral hygiene products, like interproximal toothbrushes, so they can clean around the brackets and wires. Fortunately, brushing and flossing your teeth with Invisalign is easy; the aligners are removable! So, all you need to do is take them off first. Then, you can continue with your usual dental care regimen.

Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Advances in the Invisalign technique have made it possible for more patients than ever to achieve their desired tooth straightening results without the hassle of traditional braces. Some patients who should consider the Invisalign alignment tray orthodontic system include:

• Busy teens or adults who don’t have time to dedicate to regular orthodontic visits
• Adults who don’t want to mar their professional image by wearing traditional bracket and wire braces
• Patients who have allergies or sensitives to metal
• Patients who tried to complete traditional orthodontic treatment but found the process too painful
• Patients who want to correct teeth that have shifted out of alignment again after other orthodontic treatments

Invisalign Frequently Asked Questions

Are you still curious about Invisalign in Glastonbury? Please don’t hesitate to contact our dental office for any specifics. However, we’ve also included the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Invisalign below to make the information you need easy to get to. Read on to learn more about this discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces.