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Many adults or older teens would like to improve their smiles but hate the idea of traditional orthodontia. Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that is a great alternative to metal braces. Unlike traditional braces, patients don’t have to endure painful, ugly metal wires or bands. Virtually invisible, the Invisalign system works through a series of custom aligners.
The Clear Alternative
Because Invisalign uses a series of clear trays to shift teeth, patients avoid irritating brackets and the unsightly appearance of metal orthodontia. An estimated 1,000,000 people have chosen to straighten their teeth with Invisalign. Benefits include:
- Gradual movement of teeth
- Imperceptible treatment option
- Less inconvenience
- Removable aligners
- Shorter treatment time frame
Invisalign Treatment Overview
During the first step, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and digitized them. From these impressions, your doctor can create and manipulate a computerized image of the teeth. Using the 3-D model, the dentist will plan out the movement of the teeth. Custom aligners are then generated to fit your specific case. Every couple of weeks, patients change the aligners as prescribed by the dentist. The aligners gradually reposition the teeth little by little until you can enjoy a straight, attractive smile.
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FAQs about Invisalign
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
With Invisalign, adults who want to maintain their mature images don’t have to deal with the embarrassment of metal braces. Another obvious advantage of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, so patients can take them out to eat, brush, and floss.
(opens a larger image)Invisalign in Mt. Sinai
Will Invisalign aligners straighten my child’s teeth?
Because they still have baby teeth that need room to come out, dentists don’t recommend Invisalign for young children. As well, most kids don’t have the discipline needed to wear, care for, and keep up with the Invisalign aligners.
How long does treatment last?
Although the actual length of time depends on the individual case, usually Invisalign will straighten your smile in 6 to 18 months, often less time than with traditional orthodontic therapy. Your dentist will see you every four to six weeks to monitor your progress.
Since the aligners are removable, can I take them out whenever I want?
Most patients love the fact that they can take their aligners out for eating, brushing, or on special occasions. For optimal results, you need to wear the aligners about 22 hours a day on a consistent basis.
