If the thought of bulky, metal braces has kept you from straightening your teeth, Invisalign may be the ideal solution for you. Our dentists at Winchester Orthodontics might suggest this treatment if your teeth are misaligned, crooked, overlapping or gappy. Nowadays, many teeth straightening problems can be corrected with Invisalign – pronounced Invisaline.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series or removable, custom-made, clear plastic aligners, which gradually move your teeth into their correct positions. After wearing your first set of aligners for about 2 weeks, you will need to replace them with the next in the series. Your Hampshire orthodontist will guide you through this process and ensure your treatment stays on track.
This process repeats over a period of time until you achieve your alignment goals. Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating and cleaning your teeth, however, they must be worn at least 22 hours a day for maximum efficiency.
Does Invisalign take a lot of time?
Your Invisalign treatment time is determined by the amount of movement required to shift your teeth. Teeth that need to be straightened or rotated more than usual, may require more treatment time. After an initial consultation, our orthodontist in Hampshire can determine how long the treatment will last.
Generally, Invisalign is completed within a year, but more complicated cases may take up to 2 years. After your teeth reach their final positions, your Hampshire orthodontist will recommend wearing a retainer to prevent your teeth shifting back.
Am I eligible for Invisalign?
If you are an older teen or adult with mild to moderate misalignments of your teeth, then you are likely a good candidate. During your initial consultation, your orthodontist in Hampshire will carefully assess your teeth and gums in order to determine if Invisalign is right for you.
Benefits of Invisalign
While the discretion of clear braces is a major bonus for those seeking inconspicuous treatment, there are many other benefits of Invisalign. Unlike metal braces, the clear aligners are smooth and safe to wear at all times, which makes for a more comfortable treatment journey. Plus, they can be removed, so that you can eat your favourite foods as well as brush and floss your teeth easily.