Invisalign

What is Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment involves a series of clear retainers (aligners) that move the teeth. The aligner is worn for at least 20 hours every day. The aligner must be removed while brushing, eating, and drinking anything other than unflavored water. Each aligner is worn a minimum of two weeks before changing to the next aligner in the series.

Is there an age limit for Invisalign treatment?
All permanent teeth through the 12-year molars must be fully erupted, so treatment with Invisalign is generally limited to persons 14 or older. There is no upper age limit to Invisalign treatment – people in their 50’s, 60’s and 70’s have been successfully treated.

Does Invisalign work for everyone?
No, Invisalign treatment is not effective for all orthodontic problems. Invisalign is very effective for closing spaces between teeth, and correcting mild crowding. It is not effective for severe crowding, or for severe underbites or overbites.

What else is involved besides wearing aligners?
We often place tiny dots of clear acrylic, called attachments, on one or more teeth to help the aligner move the teeth. These attachments are temporary, and are removed when Invisalign treatment is completed.

Alignment of crowded teeth often requires removal of small amounts of enamel to make the teeth slightly narrower. The enamel removal is painless, and does not damage the teeth.

What happens when I’m finished with my Invisalign treatment?
You will have a final sleep time retainer to replace your Invisalign retainer.

Click here to see the instructions we give to Invisalign patients.

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