Are you trying decide which orthodontic treatment is right for you? Today, our Vancouver orthodontists share a little about Invisalign and how Invisalign and traditional braces compare.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that consists of a series of clear custom aligners that are very discreet when worn. Easy to use and comfortable to wear, Invisalign will allow you to straighten your teeth without the need for metal brackets or wires.
How does Invisalign treatment work?
The first step in Invisalign treatment is to book a consultation. Following a thorough examination of your teeth and bite, your orthodontist will let you know if Invisalign is a suitable option for treating your smile. If Invisalign is right for you, your orthodontist will create a personalized treatment plan to map out your orthodontic treatment step by step.
Straightening your teeth with Invisalign is easy. Invisalign treatment consists of wearing each set of aligners for two weeks (or as prescribed by your orthodontist), then moving on to the next set of aligners in your series until your teeth reach their desired positions.
Invisalign vs Braces
So what are the main differences between traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners?
- Invisalign Has Different Stages - Invisalign aligners are designed to meet the orthodontic treatment challenges of each stage of dental development. Invisalign, Invisalign for Teens, and Invisalign First for children are all designed to specifically address the unique needs of each age group.
- Invisalign Aligners are Clear - Invisalign aligners are created from a thin clear plastic and are custom made to precisely fit your smile. For patients who are concerned about the appearance of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign's clear plastic aligners are barely noticeable to others when worn, making Invisalign a more discreet way to straighten your smile.
- Invisalign Aligners are Removable - Are you worried about having to give up popcorn on movie night, or another food you love? With Invisalign you won't have to give up the foods you love because each custom aligner is removable. Simply remove your aligners and store them in their handy container while you eat. Unlike traditional metal braces, there's no need to change your diet to straighten your teeth when you turn to Invisalign clear aligners as your orthodontic treatment.
- No Braces Adjustment Appointments Necessary - When you straighten your teeth with braces you need to attend frequent adjustment appointments in order to shift your teeth into their corrected positions, but Invisalign's clear aligners don't require adjustments. When you straighten your teeth with Invisalign you simply visit your orthodontist for brief progress reviews about every six weeks.
