Invisalign Clear Aligners

While the idea of having a perfectly straight smile and a bite that feels comfortable when you close your mouth is wonderful, the thought of wearing traditional braces prevents many people from seeking orthodontic treatment to address their alignment and bite issues. Thankfully, there is an effective orthodontic treatment alternative, Invisalign. 

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a treatment alternative to traditional metal braces. Treatment with Invisalign consists of a series of clear aligner trays that gradually shift teeth into the desired alignment while a patient wears them. 

How Do Clear Aligners Differ From Traditional Braces?

Clear aligners and traditional braces have the same goal: to move the teeth and jawbones into an optimal arrangement. Traditional metal braces, however, use metal braces, wires, and elastic bands to achieve this goal. Invisalign uses a series of custom-designed, clear, plastic aligner trays to accomplish the goal. 

These differences result in Invisalign offering patients several benefits during treatment. 

• Clear aligner trays are made of smooth plastic, making them gentler on a patient’s tongue, lips, and cheeks.
• Clear aligner trays are not as noticeable as metal braces, so patients can fix their orthodontic problems more discreetly. 
• Clear aligner trays can be removed during meals, so patients can continue to enjoy all of their favorite foods during treatment. 
• Clear aligner trays do not damage or discolor the surfaces of teeth during treatment the way metal braces sometimes can. 

The Invisalign Treatment Process: What To Expect 

Patients first have a consultation and evaluation, during which our dentists discuss the patient’s treatment goals and evaluate their current bite and misalignment to determine whether they are a candidate for treatment with clear aligner trays. 

Treatment begins with oral impressions submitted to Invisalign and used to design your series of aligner trays and treatment program. Once your aligners are ready, we show you how to use them and provide complete instructions that take you from your first set to your last. Throughout treatment, we schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any adjustments as needed. 

The length of treatment with Invisalign depends on the degree to which the patient’s teeth are being shifted. More significant adjustments require a longer treatment time. Typically, each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks, and total treatment can range anywhere from a couple of months to a year. 

Do Clear Aligners Work for Everyone?

Clear aligners are incredibly effective when patients follow their treatment plans and instructions closely. For example, it’s important to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day to achieve your desired results. 

Clear aligners are recommended for patients over 16 with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. More severe problems with jaw alignment or malocclusion might be better addressed with traditional braces or other types of orthodontia. 

Orthodontic Consultations With Our Invisalign Dentist in Glen Ellyn

If you struggle with crooked or crowded teeth, bite problems, or jaw pain, you would likely benefit from treatment with Invisalign or another orthodontic approach. To learn more about Invisalign or find out if it’s right for you, we welcome you to contact Glen Ellyn Dentistry at 630-942-0727 to request a consultation with one of our Invisalign dentists in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.