What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a minimally visible method for moving teeth without band, wire, or brackets. This is a clear alternative to braces for patients who do not want to wear braces.
Invisalign Orthodontics in Kitchener Waterloo
Invisalign system consists of a series of clear aligners or trays that are worn to gradually move teeth.
An Invisalign aligner is a custom-made, removable, comfortable dental retainer made from thermoformed medical polycarbonate, which is inert and compatible with human saliva.
Each aligner is worn approximately 22 hours a day over a 2 week period for a total of over 300 hours. This leaves 2 hours a day for eating and toothbrushing.
Aligners are replaced every other week on average to allow gentle tooth movement over time according to the clinician’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
Treatment duration, which can range from 3 to 20 months, and cost depend on the extent of tooth malpositioning and malocclusion.
What are the advantages of using Invisalign?
Very Minimal Visibility
Invisalign aligners are undetectable from a distance of 2 feet. Of course one can remove them at will in anticipation of close encounters or lisping. This discreet orthodontic device is more suitable to social and professional life.
Comfort
Traditional soreness associated with braces is not experienced with Invisalign.
Lack of damage to the roots of teeth. There are no reported studies of noticeable root shortening or resorption in patients treated with Invisalign. This is probably due to less than 0.25mm of tooth movement per aligner.
Oral Hygiene
Compared with patients with braces, the health of the gum seems to be better with the use of Invisalign during orthodontic treatment.
No emergencies
Normally, the Invisalign aligners do not break. But even if they do, you don’t need to call our office to schedule an after-hours emergency visit. You simply move to the next aligner.
Can be used as nightguard
The aligner is a good substitute for bite splints.
Can be used as Bleaching Tray
The Invisalign trays may be used for bleaching but it is critical not to bleach if there are attachments present because the color will not change under the attachment.
