What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign’s clear braces are a teeth-straightening system that offers comfort and convenience not typically associated with metal braces. By using a series of transparent, removable dental trays, Dr. Horst can help you achieve a more balanced smile and straighter teeth.
She begins by taking impressions of your teeth, which she then sends to a lab. There, they create a custom treatment plan, along with the clear plastic aligners. You wear each set of aligners for about 1-3 weeks, gradually shifting your teeth with each set. Throughout the process, Dr. Horst checks on your progress to monitor the movement and health of your teeth. A typical treatment plan generally takes the same amount of time as traditional braces.
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
Most patients who have had orthodontic work as children or teens, or who don’t have major structural problems with their teeth, are good candidates for Invisalign. You might benefit from this type of teeth-straightening system if you have:
- Crowding: Overlapping, crooked, or misaligned teeth
- Gaps: Large spaces between teeth
- Bite problems: Minor abnormalities with overbite, underbite, or crossbite
Most Invisalign patients need to be in good oral health, as the aligners can sometimes cause gum recession or worsen existing periodontal disease. To determine whether Invisalign is right for you, Dr. Horst gives you a thorough dental examination and answers any questions you may have about the Invisalign process.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Versatile, customizable, and highly effective, Invisalign offers a wide range of benefits. Advantages of Invisalign include:
- Custom-designed trays for your unique needs
- Removable aligners, so eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing are easy
- Typically more comfortable than braces
- Inconspicuous appearance
- No wires, brackets, or metal pieces
Additionally, most patients spend less time at the dentist for adjustments than they would with traditional metal braces, and there’s no tightening of uncomfortable wires.
Want to learn more about how Invisalign® can enhance the alignment of your teeth and improve your smile? Contact Dr. Horst today to schedule your initial appointment for a consultation. Call or book online to get started.
