Over the past two decades, more and more people have chosen Invisalign® over traditional braces as a discreet way to straighten teeth.  Rather than relying on metal wires and brackets, this treatment utilizes clear aligner trays to gently shift teeth into their proper position. If you’re curious about what Invisalign can do for your smile, here are a few important details to know about this popular cosmetic dentistry treatment.

What to Know About Invisalign

How Does Invisalign Work?

Before you begin treatment, your cosmetic dentistry specialist will use three-dimensional imaging to determine the best way to shift your teeth. Once the treatment plan is mapped out, you will receive a set of custom aligner trays that you wear for about 20 to 22 hours a day. Designed to fit exactly around your teeth, these trays exert a gentle force that will progressively adjust your teeth into the right position. About once every two weeks, you’ll switch to the next stage of trays in order to continue the straightening process.  

Why Choose Invisalign Over Traditional Braces?

Given the clear appearance of the aligner trays, Invisalign is considerably less noticeable than traditional braces. Invisalign also does not get in the way of eating. In fact, you can eat whatever you want so long as you take out your trays and brush accordingly before putting them back on.

This cosmetic dentistry treatment is also considered to be more comfortable, thanks to the precise fit that the custom trays provide. And while the exact treatment time can vary, Invisalign tends to produce results in about half the time that traditional braces would require.

What Problems Can Invisalign Address?

Invisalign is an incredibly versatile treatment option, as it can address many of the same issues that standard braces are used to fix. For example, people often use this treatment to correct overbites, underbites, crowded teeth, and gaps.

How Do You Care for Invisalign Trays?

To get the most out of treatment it is imperative that you keep them in your mouth whenever you’re not eating—at least 20 hours a day. If you’re not wearing trays, it’s best to place them in a case or soak them in a dentist-approved cleaning solution. To prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental health issues, it’s important to brush your teeth after eating and before putting the trays back on.  

Focused on helping you achieve a superior smile, Dr. Mark Fohey of Waukon Dental, Family Dentistry Associates of Monona and Dental Associates of Prairie du Chien, P.C. is a qualified provider of Invisalign treatment. Recognized for customized care, Dr. Fohey and staff will walk you through every stage of treatment to get you the best results in the most comfortable way possible. If Invisalign isn’t right for you, they offer many other cosmetic dentistry services to boost your look—including teeth whitening and veneers. To learn more about these services and how to schedule an appointment, visit Dental Associates of Prairie du Chien, P.C., Family Dentistry Associates of Monona, and Waukon Dental online.