Does Invisalign Really Work?

If you think you might need orthodontic treatment and are wondering if Invisalign is a good option, keep reading. Our Victoria dentists explain why Invisalign Clear Aligners may be worth the investment.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic procedure designed to straighten teeth using a series of transparent plastic trays or aligners, rather than traditional braces. Many adults and teenagers who want to straighten their teeth without the use of traditional metal-and-wire braces look to Invisalign as an alternative. Users can remove their Invisalign trays when they eat, brush their teeth, and floss their teeth. However, they are most effective when they are worn for 20 to 22 hours each day.

Invisalign aligners should be easy to use, comfortable to wear, and almost imperceptible to others when worn. Clear aligners from Invisalign can be used to close gaps between teeth, reduce crowding, and realign your teeth.

Invisalign may also help with issues concerning overbites & underbites, and even open bites (when the upper and lower teeth don't meet, which can cause trouble when chewing).

How does Invisalign Work?

Think of your Invisalign aligners as a traditional teeth whitening tray and you'll be on your way to knowing what your aligners will look like.

Starting with a dental impression of your mouth, Invisalign lab technicians will create a series of custom aligners designed specifically for you to encourage your teeth to move into their new positions.

It is expected that you will change your aligners every two weeks until the desired result is achieved.

Invisalign aligners apply pressure to misaligned teeth, gradually bringing them into proper alignment. Users typically wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day for three to eighteen months (on average).

Although attachments are not required for all Invisalign patients (small handle-like attachments to the teeth that help the aligners exert proper force on problem areas), an orthodontist may determine that they are necessary in some cases.

Why Invisalign Works

Invisalign works primarily by applying consistent, mild pressure and force to your teeth as they move into their proper positions over time. Rather than straightening all of your teeth at once, each phase of your Invisalign treatment focuses on only a few of them at a time.

By switching out your aligners every two weeks, each of your teeth may receive the appropriate amount of pressure for the exact period.

With gentle movement and guidance, your teeth should move into their new positions and leave you with a straighter smile as the result of the process.

Are you curious as to whether Invisalign Clear Aligners are the right treatment option for you? Contact our Victoria dentists to schedule a consultation. We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.