Invisalign® Braces: A Cutting-Edge Orthodontic Treatment

In the past, many people regarded orthodontics as a cosmetic specialty. However, research has revealed that having orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, gaps, and misaligned bites can lead to many oral health issues.

When people think of orthodontic treatment, they often imagine a teenager with metal braces. Although more people have realized the many benefits of orthodontic treatment, many are still hesitant due to the conspicuous appearance of metal braces. Fortunately, though, we have other orthodontic options, such as Invisalign® in Westwood, MA.

To determine if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, contact us today at Westwood Dental Group, formerly the Office of Donald J. McLellan, DDS.

Invisalign Overview 

About two decades ago, Invisalign hit the market, and it has been changing smiles ever since. Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that utilizes high-quality BPA plastic in the form of trays.

The clear aligner trays look similar to mouth guards. However, they are much thinner. Each set of aligners is custom-made just for you. You will receive a series of aligner trays at the start of your treatment.

The feature that makes Invisalign stand out from other orthodontic treatments is that they are clear. Their discreet nature and convenience are what make most adults gravitate toward them.

Who Can Benefit from Using Invisalign? 

As mentioned earlier, aesthetics is not the main goal of orthodontics, even though a straight smile is a visible result of the treatment. Orthodontic issues can cause other oral health problems, such as dental caries, TMD, periodontitis, and much more.

Invisalign treatment can be used to correct:

• Overcrowding
• Underbite
• Overbite
• Crossbite
• Minor gaps between teeth
• Crooked teeth

Invisalign isn’t ideal for every case. If the orthodontic issues are severe, then traditional metal braces may be a better choice.

Even though it can be used at any age, it is more appropriate for patients whose bones have already developed and who can properly follow the suggested treatment plan. Therefore, it is best suited for teenagers and adults.

How Does Invisalign Work?      

Invisalign aligners come in a series of customized aligners. You are expected to wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks. Then you will discard it and wear the next set in the series.

The aligners are designed to snugly fit so that they can move your teeth to the desired positions. Since each aligner in the series is created to be straighter than the previous, they move teeth in small increments by applying constant pressure. After a week or two, your teeth should have moved in a way that matches the next aligner.

For the aligner to work as it should, you need to wear them for at least 20 hours each day.

Typically, the treatment will take anywhere between 12 to 18 months, after which our dentist will determine whether your teeth have moved as they should. During the treatment, you will be expected to visit our dentist every six weeks.

After the treatment is complete, our dentist in Westwood, MA, will give you a retainer so that your teeth don’t move back to their original position.

Why Choose Invisalign?   

• No-Diet Restrictions

Unlike metal braces, you don’t have to switch your diet. You can remove the aligners, enjoy your favorite meal, brush your teeth, rinse the aligner, and slip it back on.

• Improved Oral Health

Straight teeth are not just cosmetically appealing, but they are also important in maintaining your oral health. Crooked teeth are a nightmare to clean, and over time you can have gum disease or even tooth caries.

• Shorter Treatment Period

In most cases, the treatment will take no more than a year and a half to complete, unlike metal braces, which can take much longer.

• Aesthetic Appeal

Invisalign aligners are made from clear plastic, which makes them see-through. The inconspicuous nature of the treatment has made it aesthetically appealing for most people.

To schedule a consultation for Invisalign, contact us at Westwood Dental Group, formerly the Office of Donald J. McLellan, DDS.