Invisalign®
If you don’t like your smile because some of your teeth are out of alignment, crowded, or have spacing, we can help. Invisalign is one of our specialties in our dental studio, and we are proud to be a certified provider of Invisalign Clear Aligners.
Watch a short video about Invisalign on our YouTube channel.
Advantages of Invisalign
Invisalign treatment is today’s best, easiest, and most predictable treatment method to correct misaligned teeth. Simply put, you will wear a set of clear aligners that need to be adjusted every few weeks. However, in more complex cases, you might use the same tray for a little longer between adjustments. The trays are virtually invisible. Most importantly, these invisible braces are very convenient for a busy schedule since office visits are quick and only needed every 4 to 6 weeks. Please note, with our state-of-the-art CAD/CAM digital scanning technology, we only scan your teeth and send the digital models electronically to our local specialized Invisalign laboratory. There is no need for you to have a physical, uncomfortable impression as it may be done in other places. Our scanning process is straightforward, comfortable and produces exceptionally accurate models, making re-takes rare.
Invisalign Versus Braces
Invisalign is the ideal treatment for candidates who want a nearly invisible and comfortable straightening procedure. We can treat most cases with these clear aligners. However, certain circumstances are too complicated and are not recommended for treatment with Invisalign. First, we will perform an exam to determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. Patients with large spacing between their teeth or cases that require raising or lowering the position of the teeth are not good candidates for these clear braces. In addition, patients with specific prior dental work, such as implants or dental bridges may not qualify for Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign Side Effects
Clear aligners are not painful. It may cause slight soreness in the patient’s teeth. While Invisalign trays are not like brackets and wires, they will cause some discomfort due to the nature of orthodontic treatment and the pressure exerted on teeth to create movement. The discomfort may last for a few days. The aligner trays are switched once every two weeks. With every new set of trays, temporary discomfort should be expected, but it should subside in a few days. We recommend that you start wearing the new aligners right before bedtime. This way, you can sleep through the initial discomfort of new Invisalign trays.
Our Process for Invisalign
The first step is to have a consultation appointment. Dr. Shahrokh can examine your teeth, discuss your goals with invisible braces therapy, and determine if Invisalign clear aligners can fix your concern. If clear aligners are not the right treatment for you, we will refer you to a trusted orthodontist with expertise in traditional orthodontic treatment.
If you are a candidate for Invisalign, we scan your teeth using our 3-D CAD/CAM scanner, and we will use the scans to fabricate your clear aligners. Also, we will create a progress animation to show you a preview of the steps and the eventual treatment outcome.
A trusted Invisalign laboratory will make the Invisalign trays, custom-made to fit your teeth and gum for maximum comfort throughout the treatment.
You should wear your Invisalign clear aligners for at least 22 hours daily. You may take them out to clean them, eat and brush your teeth, but otherwise, you should be wearing your aligners. Most importantly, the aligners cannot correct your smile unless you wear them for the required amount of time. You will wear each set of trays for two weeks and then switch to the next set. Therefore, throughout the treatment, you will have periodic appointments with Dr. Shahrokh to monitor the progress of the treatment.
The treatment depending on its complexity, may take anywhere from 12 to 18 months. Once the treatment is completed, you will continue wearing your last tray, which will act as your retainer to retain the result of the treatment.
Maintaining Results after Invisalign
To maintain the results, you should continue wearing your retainer. Over time, your teeth may start shifting back to their original position. Therefore, wearing the retainer can ensure that your beautiful smile is maintained.
Most importantly, keep your retainer clean by brushing it inside with a toothbrush. In general, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending your regular dental checkups even after the treatment is important to maintain your beautiful smile.
Take the first step and use the contact form below to come in for a consultation with Dr. Shahrokh.