Does Invisalign Really Work?

If you believe you may require orthodontic treatment and are considering if Invisalign is a viable choice, read on. Our Village Orthodontics team explains why Invisalign Clear Aligners might be worth it.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic procedure designed to straighten teeth using a series of transparent plastic trays or aligners, rather than traditional braces. Many adults and teenagers who want to straighten their teeth without the use of traditional metal-and-wire braces look to Invisalign as an alternative. Users can remove their Invisalign trays when they eat, brush their teeth, and floss their teeth. However, they are most effective when they are worn for 20 to 22 hours each day.

Invisalign aligners should be easy to apply, comfortable to wear, and almost imperceptible to others when worn. Clear aligners from Invisalign can be used to close gaps between your teeth, reduce crowding, and realign your teeth.

Invisalign may also help with issues concerning overbites & underbites, and even open bites (when the upper and lower teeth don't meet, which can cause trouble when chewing).

How does Invisalign Work?

Think of your Invisalign aligners as a traditional teeth whitening tray and you'll be on your way to knowing what your aligners will look like.

Starting with a dental imprint of your mouth, Invisalign lab technicians will produce a series of custom aligners that are specifically designed for you in order to encourage your teeth to move into their new positions.

It is expected that you will change aligners about once every two weeks until the desired outcome is reached.

Invisalign aligners apply pressure to misaligned teeth, gradually pushing them into proper alignment over time. Over the course of three to eighteen months (on average), users usually wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day.

Although attachments are not required for all Invisalign patients (small handle-like attachments to the teeth that help the aligners exert proper force on problem areas), an orthodontist may determine that they are necessary in some cases.

Why Invisalign Works

Invisalign works primarily because your aligners will apply gentle pressure and force to your teeth as they move into their proper positions over time. Instead of straightening all of your teeth at once, each phase of your Invisalign treatment focuses on only a few at a time.

By switching out your aligners every two weeks, it is possible that each of your teeth receives the appropriate amount of pressure for the exact period of time.

With gentle movement and guidance, your teeth should move into their new positions and leave you with a straighter smile as a result of the process.

Are you curious as to whether Invisalign Clear Aligners are the right treatment option for you? Contact our Village Orthodontics team to schedule a consultation. We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Or find a location near you.