Getting straight teeth no longer means that you need to have braces, although that option is still available if you want it. Now there is a way that you can get straight teeth – and no one else has to know. The Invisalign aligner system can straighten your teeth invisibly.
About Aligners
Aligners are a clear plastic mold that fits over your teeth. They are like mouth guards, but you will be given a set of them, and each set is a little different. You wear each set for one or two weeks, and each set slowly moves your teeth a little more into the desired position.
The Invisible Way
The aligners are molded to fit your teeth perfectly, and since they are clear, no one will notice that you are wearing them. This makes them the ideal system for getting straight teeth. They are perfect for picky teenagers who do not want braces, or for adults of any age. No one is too old to get straight teeth with this system. In fact, about four times as many adults use the system than teenagers.
Wearing the Aligners
In order to work correctly, the aligners will need to be worn between 20 to 22 hours each day. When you have special events to attend, you can leave them off, but generally, they should be worn for the recommended amount of time.
Removable Aligners
Unlike braces, which make it hard to clean your teeth, aligners have the advantage in that they are removable. You can easily take them out and put them back in. This lets you clean your teeth normally and completely. Flossing is also not a problem.
Another powerful advantage is that you do not need to worry about what you can eat or not. With Invisalign aligners, you can eat whatever you want. Simply remove the aligners while you eat, brush your teeth afterward, and then put them back in. You want to be careful with them, since if you drink alcohol or coffee, the aligners may stain. Smoking with them in your mouth may also turn them yellow.
The Treatment
Depending on how out of line your teeth are, many treatments with this system are often shorter than with braces. Your treatment may be as short as 20 weeks, but it is apt to last from nine months to a year.
Once you get the aligners, it will be necessary to make regular visits to the dentist about every four to six weeks. The dentist will need to ensure that everything is going as planned, and make any changes if needed.
The Best Candidates
Most everyone can get the invisible aligners. In more severe cases of dental misalignment, it will often be recommended that braces be used. It will also likely be necessary to have teeth cleaning before getting aligners.
The Invisalign system is an excellent way to get straight teeth without anyone noticing. It can help you get a great smile that you will want to show off. Call us, (914) 732-3377 for more information or to set up an appointment.