Did you know there is an easier way to align your teeth without using metal braces? Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that will straighten your teeth without getting in the way of your everyday life. Horizon Family Dental Care is a cosmetic dentist office that offers Invisalign in Baltimore, MD. Patients who desire straight teeth and a discreet treatment will benefit from this clear aligner system.
What is Invisalign®?
The Invisalign treatment consists of many sets of aligners. You will wear each set for about one to two weeks at a time. The number of aligners you will wear depends on your treatment plan.
When you wear your custom aligners, they will gently move your teeth into the proper position. Once your teeth are in the proper spot, you move on to the next set. Soon enough, your teeth are in the desired position.
The aligners are made of a patented material called SmartTrack. It consists of medical-grade polymer and other materials that allow the aligners to be clear, thin, very strong, comfortable, and flexible. The aligners are made from molds of your teeth so they will fit perfectly in your mouth.
The Invisalign® Process
The first step in the process is to conduct a smile scan. Your dentist will use a handheld device called an iTero Element scanner to capture 3D images of your teeth.
They will not have to use messy molds to get impressions of your teeth. Your dentist will upload the 3D images to a computer where they will design your new smile. You will actually be able to preview your results before starting the treatment.
Your dentist will send these images off to the Invisalign lab where they will fabricate your custom aligners. At the next appointment, we will try on the first set to make sure they fit properly and explain how the process will works from there. You will leave our office with the first couple sets of aligners and directions on how to care for them.
Living with Invisalign® in Baltimore, MD
Invisalign treatment treatment involves wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours every day. This means you should only remove them to eat, drink liquids that are not water, and perform your oral hygiene routine.
We need to see you about every six to eight weeks for a checkup to make sure your teeth are shifting properly. You will also pick up your next batch of aligners at this time. With each set of aligners, you will experience some slight pressure as they are now pushing your teeth are little more. This is normal and you should expect it.
How do I take care of my Invisalign® aligners?
For the sake of your oral health, it is vital to take care of your aligners. You should rinse them every single night and several times during the day if you can. Brushing them gently every night with your toothbrush and toothpaste will keep them fresh and clean. You can also purchase an aligner cleaning system to help care for your clear braces.
Never consume hot beverages with the aligners in your mouth. This can cause them to warp and change shape. Never eat or drink anything other than water while wearing them. This will keep them from staining and remain in good condition.
Caring for Your Smile after Invisalign®
After you complete your Invisalign treatment, your teeth may return to their original position. This could even happen with traditional braces. Most people believe that once their treatment is complete, they no longer have to worry about crooked teeth. However, most patients continue to wear post-orthodontic treatment appliances for the rest of their lives to maintain their results.
Once you complete your treatment, your Horizon Family Dental dentist in Baltimore will fit you for a custom retainer. A retainer is a basic orthodontic appliance that helps prevent your teeth from slowly shifting back out of alignment.
It is a vital part of your treatment that will help you maintain your results. Not many people realize that when they force teeth out of their position, it is possible for them to revert back. A retainer will prevent this.
Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to wear your retainer. In most cases, patients wear it at night to help maintain results. Doing this for a lifetime will prevent orthodontic relapse and keep your smile straight.
In addition to following your after-treatment instructions, maintaining good oral hygiene habits will help keep your new smile perfect. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily, and visiting your dentist twice a year will keep your teeth and gums healthy. These basic oral care habits will help prevent dental problems from affecting your results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign®
How does Invisalign compare to traditional braces?
Invisalign is different from traditional braces because it uses invisible trays instead of brackets and metal wires. Most people think Invisalign is an easier treatment. This crooked teeth treatment makes it easier to care for oral hygiene than braces. You also have more freedom since you can freely take the aligners in and out. However, Invisalign might not work as well for fixing severe cases of crooked teeth. Some people with severe orthodontic issues may need to get braces and deal with their inconveniences.
How long does Invisalign treatment typically take?
Invisalign treatment typically lasts about 12 to 18 months for most people. However, it can vary depending on each person’s teeth. Treatment time also depends on how well people follow their treatment plan. Your dentist will be able to give you a better idea of how long it will take for your specific situation. Wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time each day to minimize your treatment timeline.
Are Invisalign aligners painful or uncomfortable?
Invisalign might initially feel weird or snug, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your teeth may be a little sore for a few days each time you get a new aligner. However, this does not even compare to getting your braces tightened. You can take over-the-counter medicine for pain if you need it. Just be patient and follow your doctor’s instructions for the best results.
Does dental insurance cover Invisalign?
Yes, some dental insurance plans may cover Invisalign. We encourage all patients to check with their provider to see if clear aligner therapy is part of their plan. Every policy is different. You may get partial coverage and be responsible for the remaining balance. Our helpful office staff can help you get more information if you are unsure of coverage.
Are there any restrictions on physical activities while wearing Invisalign?
While wearing Invisalign, you should avoid eating or drinking anything other than water. We also suggest that you remove your aligners before playing contact sports. These types of physical activities can bump or damage your Invisalign aligners. Make sure to wear them for at least 20-22 hours each day to get the best results. If you have doubts about what to do while wearing Invisalign, ask your dentist for help.
What happens if I lose or damage my Invisalign aligners?
If you lose or break your clear aligners, contact us right away. We will need to know where you are in your treatment timeline before we can help you. If you have been wearing the aligners for a few days, we will get a replacement set so your treatment stays on track. You will need to wear your previous set until the replacement comes in. To keep them safe, please keep your aligners in their case when you’re not wearing them.
How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
During Invisalign treatment, you should visit your dentist about every six weeks. They will make sure your teeth are moving correctly and make sure everything is going well with your treatment. Sticking with this schedule will ensure your teeth are healthy and your Invisalign treatment stays on track. Plus, your dentist can answer any questions you have and give you tips for taking care of your teeth while wearing Invisalign.
If you are looking for a discreet way to align you teeth, the Invisalign clear aligner system is a great way achieve a straight smile. You can schedule a dental appointment with our team online. We look forward to helping you smile with confidence.