4 Reasons to Choose Invisalign®

What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?

Invisalign treatment consists of a series of nearly invisible aligners that fit over teeth to gradually move them into position. On average, this takes about 12-18 months though it does vary per individual. Each set in a patient’s custom series contains top and bottom aligners that should be worn at least 20-22 hours a day for a few weeks at a time.

Mimicking the way regular braces work, Invisalign clear aligners apply controlled force to teeth to ensure they shift as Dr. Arms planned. The key difference, however, lies in the construction. Invisalign doesn’t use metal wires or brackets to accomplish a straighter smile but instead opts for plastic aligners that feel comfortable in the mouth.

Compared to Traditional Braces, Invisalign Clear Aligners:

1. Can Be Taken Out to Eat, Brush, and Floss

With metal braces, there is no removing them until your orthodontic treatment is complete. That means extra care has to be taken to not damage wires or brackets and it’s best to avoid eating certain hard, crunchy, or sticky foods.

Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, are removable which opens the door to an unrestricted diet so long as daily oral hygiene still takes place. Corn on the cob, caramel, and popcorn are just a few foods you can enjoy that otherwise would be considered “off-limits”.

When it’s time to brush and floss, there’s nothing in your way! Simply take the aligners out, place them in your protective case, and clean your teeth as you normally would. Don’t forget to also gently brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water. Dr. Arms recommends doing this at least twice a day to prevent stains and bacteria buildup.

2. Offer a Subtle Look Throughout Treatment

It’s not uncommon for patients looking to correct crooked teeth or bite issues to want beautiful results but not a mouth full of metal. Fortunately, Invisalign’s virtually invisible aligners allow those receiving treatment to get the smile of their dreams in a less obvious way.

In fact, most people you interact with won’t know you are wearing anything unless they get fairly close. Family, friends, and co-workers can see you for who you are as you progress through each set in your series.

3. Feature No Metal Components

An unintended consequence of wearing metal braces is that the wires and brackets can rub against the inside of your cheeks. When this happens, it makes that area of your mouth feel raw and irritated. Sure, dental wax can help as a temporary solution, but it doesn’t fix everything.

This is not a problem you have to experience with Invisalign aligners. The texture of the aligners more closely matches what your real teeth feel like compared to hard brackets and stiff wires. Dental impressions taken early on in your treatment by Dr. Arms also ensure each aligner set is custom-tailored to produce desired smile results.

4. Require Fewer Checkups and No Repairs

Aside from coming into our Cadillac dental office for a routine teeth cleaning every 6 months, you won’t need to come in for any Invisalign adjustments. That’s because there are none to make, unlike metal braces which are tightened about every 6 weeks.

Since there are no brackets or wires, you also won’t have to worry about any components coming loose and needing repair. If your clear aligners are damaged in some way, Dr. Arms will instruct you to simply switch to the next set in your series.

Make an Appointment with Dr. Arms

Our Invisalign dentist in Cadillac, MI, has undergone countless hours of continued education on this alternative to traditional metal braces. Because of this, you can feel confident trusting his judgment throughout your Invisalign treatment. Get started today by calling LifeSmiles Dentistry at (231) 775-8281 to request an appointment.