Have you heard of Invisalign®? Modern orthodontics without metal

As society’s concern with aesthetics has increased, orthodontics has also evolved in order to address this problem. The Invisalign® system has brought an excellent alternative to metal braces and fixed orthodontics as it allows you to align your teeth without the metallic appearance that conventional orthodontics causes.

Invisalign® is an invisible, removable appliance suitable for the treatment of any type of dental misalignment, or even for minor corrections.

How is the treatment performed?

Effectively, treatment with the Invisalign® system consists of several clear plastic aligners made to measure by means of a previous digital impression with an intraoral scanner or a conventional impression with silicone. Each of these aligners will be used sequentially, that is, the patient will be instructed to change the aligner every 10 days until the desired result is achieved. Each of these aligners will cause movements in the teeth in a gradual manner until they reach the final position.

One of the great advantages of this system is that the patient can visualize the final result of the alignment before the treatment begins. By seeing all the movements that their teeth will make, the patient can better understand all the stages of their treatment.

How often does the patient have to visit the clinic to change the aligner?

Unlike conventional orthodontics, with the Invisalign® system patients change their aligners at home without having to make an appointment every month. The patient will change the aligners according to the instructions that the Orthodontist will give him/her during the consultation at the time of treatment delivery.

Thus, only periodic appointments will be made for treatment evaluation and the delivery of new sets of aligners.

Is treatment with Invisalign® painful?

Because the aligners cause controlled forces on the teeth, you will feel a little discomfort at the beginning of treatment and on the days that you change aligners. This is normal and a good sign, as it means that Invisalign® is working properly and your teeth are moving.

In case of pain beyond the sensation of discomfort you should contact your Orthodontist.

What care is needed?

The Invisalign® appliance should be worn throughout the day, with the exception of eating times. Therefore, the appliance should be removed before meals and put back on afterwards, after having brushed and cleaned the appliance.

Is it suitable for all ages?

Yes, anyone of any age can have orthodontic treatment with Invisalign®. The comfort provided by the fact that it is removable is a great advantage, especially for children and young people, as it does not make oral hygiene as difficult as conventional metal orthodontics. On the other hand, as it is highly transparent, it is perfect for adults who want to align their smile in an unnoticeable way and without the typical “metallic smile”.