La
Plata
Invisalign has allowed countless patients to straighten out their teeth without the conspicuous and irremovable metal parts of traditional braces and the frustrating dietary restrictions they require. Many report that Invisalign is an easy and convenient orthodontic treatment, and it can usually realign a smile more quickly than conventional methods. Here’s a brief overview of how Invisalign works and how long the realignment process can take.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic alternative that realigns teeth using a customized sequence of clear aligners that are virtually invisible when worn. The patient will need to wear each pair of aligners for at least twenty hours every day and switch to the next set in their sequence every two weeks or so. These appliances are designed to fit snugly over the teeth and exert the gradual pressure necessary to shift the smile into a more ideal alignment.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
Most Invisalign treatments take between six and eighteen months to complete, but some patients may have to wear their aligners for longer or shorter periods. If a person has only a mild misalignment such as slight gaps or crowding, their treatment may take as few as three months. A person with a more complicated misalignment, on the other hand, may take twenty months or more. However, patients can help keep their realignment timeframes as brief and comfortable as possible by adhering to their dentist’s treatment instructions.
How Can I Keep My Invisalign Treatment on Track?
Your dentist will provide you with detailed treatment instructions before you begin the Invisalign process. These will probably include:
- Wear your aligners for at least twenty hours each day. It’s best to only remove them for meals, snacks, and oral hygiene sessions.
- Remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything but liquid water.
- Thoroughly brush and floss your teeth and rinse off your aligners each time before putting your appliance back in.
- Clean your aligners at least once a day by soaking them for fifteen minutes with Invisalign cleaning crystals or by gently scrubbing them with a soft-bristled brush and clear hand soap.
- Place your aligners in a protective case when not wearing them.
Don’t let your Invisalign treatment be delayed by inadequate hygiene practices. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to keep your realignment process on track.
About the Practice
La Plata Dental offers the finest oral healthcare in town. Led by Drs. Mark Hochman and Andrew Betaharon, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys courteous service in a clean and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign treatments. To learn more about the Invisalign process, contact the office online or dial (240) 349-2439.