Invisalign is a special type of straightening. Traditionally, braces use arch wires to guide crooked and unevenly-spaced teeth into place. These wires run through square-shaped brackets made from stainless steel, ceramic, or porcelain. The continuous pressure from this system gradually shifts teeth in a specific direction. Over time the shape of the bone changes.

Invisalign does not use wires or brackets. Instead, you will be given aligner trays. Information about your mouth is collected and used to design trays that fit securely against your teeth. These dental appliances are made from a clear, smooth, BPA-free plastic. Due to their design, the aligners can barely be seen by others. The trays don’t rub against soft tissues, so they are more comfortable.

The information collected to create these trays is also used to develop a treatment plan. About every two weeks you will wear a new set of aligners. Each set corresponds with a step in your plan, so they incrementally, progressively shift teeth into proper position.

Whereas traditional braces get their straightening power from wires, Invisalign gets its power from aligners that deliver controlled force to the teeth. Notably, these aligners also control the timing of the force. Each set of trays only moves some teeth as determined by the treatment plan.

You will be able to see these movements and how they progressively result in straighter teeth before the first set of aligners is worn. Measurements of your mouth from X-rays, pictures, and impressions will render a 3-Dimensional model of your mouth, which Dr. Kent can display on a monitor to illustrate how teeth are repositioned throughout treatment.

A straightening method for every mouth

The number of sets to be worn depends on the condition to be treated and the severity of misalignment. While these trays are ideal because they can be removed for eating and cleaning, it is recommended you wear them for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. If aligners are removed for longer than the recommended time period, your teeth may experience discomfort as they readjust to the aligners. You can also jeopardize the effectiveness of treatment if they are not worn as recommended by your Invisalign provider in Buffalo NY, Dr. Gordon Kent.

Since Invisalign is a unique orthodontic treatment method, it is important to turn to a licensed professional who is trained and experienced to design and oversee your treatment plan.

You can also benefit from Dr. Kent’s experience with other orthodontic techniques. For instance, he can determine if the modern approach to conventional braces is best for your situation. Today’s braces are more comfortable and attractive, because the brackets are smaller and tooth-colored.

Call to schedule a consultation that leads to straighter teeth. Evenly-spaced teeth offer more than a better smile; they are easier to clean, you get more satisfaction from eating, and cleaning isn’t such a chore.