Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen ® utilize 3-D computer technology to create clear, plastic removable braces, called "aligners." Invisalign's aligners move teeth at a rate similar to, or more gradual than, traditional braces. But, there is one big difference. Invisalign does not need metal wires, metal brackets, or headgear. These clear braces need to be removed when you eat, clean and floss your teeth. The invisible braces are undetectable when worn. The computer imaging technology will develop a step by step treatment sequence from the initial stage to the final desired result. From this custom and precise simulation, the series of unique aligners are fabricated. Each set of aligners, which moves the teeth incrementally, are worn for about two weeks. They are replaced by the subsequent set of aligners and the process is completed until the final position is achieved. Touching up, called the refinement phase, is sometimes used to help tweak the final result.
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Removable braces are not a new concept. For decades, general dentists, prosthodontists and orthodontists have used removable appliances to correct minor teeth discrepancies. Unfortunately, the results were not always reliable and predictable. Invisalign has been proven to successfully treat a broader range of patients with enhanced precision. The principal difference is that Invisalign controls both the force and the sequencing of the force. At each stage, some or all of the teeth may be programmed to move. When the patient is dedicated to thorough compliance, this results in an efficient and predictable system.
Wearers of Invisalign may experience brief bouts of discomfort or pressure that can last for a few hours at the beginning of each stage of treatment. This is normal. Some find it a comforting confirmation that Invisalign aligners are working and the teeth are progressing as expected.
This procedure is especially popular among adults who had previous orthodontic treatment when they were younger, but have subsequently experienced “orthodontic relapse.” Orthodontic relapse is where teeth that were once aligned properly are now crooked, have spaces, or are misaligned. Rather than repeat the inconvenience or discomfort of braces all over again, Invisalign offers an appealing alternative.
A common question is whether Invisalign or Invisalign Teen treatment is covered by dental insurance. If you have orthodontic coverage included in your dental insurance, Invisalign should be covered to the same extent as conventional braces.
This may be the most important message to remember. When treatment is complete, it is imperative to stabilize the newly arranged position of the teeth . After any active orthodontic treatment, including braces, brackets, Invisalign , aligners, whatever – it takes about six months for the teeth to become secure. During this half year, teeth are vulnerable to undesired shifting. Usually a dental retainer system resembling a thicker version of the aligners is worn, also for about 21 hours each day. After six months of full time wear (21 hours), the dentist will recommend scaling down to about 10 hours each evening. We evaluate the stability of the teeth positions at each successive cleaning session. On occasion, a fixed appliance is stuck onto the teeth to ensure stability.
This retention process is a critical and frequently inadequately understood and implemented aspect of therapy. Few things frustrate dentists and patients more than having previously straightened teeth fall out of alignment.
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