Invisalign® aligners are clear, comfortable orthodontic devices that straighten the teeth without the need for metal braces or intensive dental procedures. These aligners — two plastic trays which fit securely over your top and bottom teeth — are usually worn about 20 to 22 hours a day, taken out only when eating or brushing. Consult the guide below to see if Invisalign is right for you.

How It Works

If you’ve decided to correct your dental issues with Invisalign, your dentist will form a treatment plan which outlines the direction and movement that need to be accomplished for the teeth to effectively straighten. They’ll fit you with several different versions of Invisalign, each designed to be worn at different times during the teeth straightening process. The whole process usually takes about 12 months, but it can take as long as 24 months, depending on the degree of straightening you require. Every few weeks, you will receive new custom-fit aligners to continue the healthy progression of teeth movement.

Who Should Wear Invisalign 

Invisalign is ideal for adults, young adults, and teenagers. Children's mouths and teeth are still developing, so it’s often difficult to achieve the right fit for the aligners when dealing with this age group. Invisalign works well on slightly crooked or protruding teeth, on mild overbites or underbites, on gaps between teeth, and on overcrowded mouths. The aligners can also fix malocclusions — misalignments in one's bite or uneven positioning of the teeth when the jaw is closed. People with more serious orthodontic problems would be better served by a more intensive form of teeth correction.

How It Helps

The chief benefit of Invisalign is convenience. They are much easier to care for than traditional metal braces. These aligners can be taken out for eating, toothbrushing, and flossing; they’re easily cleaned by soaking in a plastic-retainer solution; and they do not require constant adjustments and orthodontist visits. Made of pliable plastic material, they are much less awkward and painful than traditional braces, which contain wires and brackets that can pinch and hurt.

Dr. Sonia Vulakh, DDS, and her team at Montvale Dental Group in Montvale, NJ, offer Invisalign to patients throughout the Bergen County area. With more than two decades of experience, they are a trusted source of quality family and cosmetic dentistry services. From preventative exams and treatments to restorative and orthodontic procedures, they are committed to helping you maintain your dental health and oral hygiene. Call (201) 391-3060 or visit their website to schedule an appointment today.