Invisalign®

For many people, having crooked teeth leads to an aesthetic concern about the appearance of one's smile. Crooked teeth, however, can have consequences that stretch beyond looks. In fact, crooked teeth are actually also an oral health concern. They are more difficult to keep clean which can put you at an increased risk of developing periodontal disease, tooth decay, and cavities. Plus, crooked teeth can result in a misaligned bite (malocclusion). This can be uncomfortable and painful and cause additional oral health problems such as irregular wear and tear, bruxism, and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

Thankfully, there are several orthodontic treatment approaches that can address crooked teeth, resulting in a beautifully straight smile and a comfortably aligned bite. One of the most popular orthodontic teeth-straightening treatment options is Invisalign.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a system of graduated aligner trays. The trays are made of clear, smooth plastic and designed, with each tray in the treatment system, to gradually and gently shift a patient's teeth closer and closer to the desired positions and alignment.

Why Choose Invisalign for Your Orthodontic Treatment

Invisalign offers several benefits and advantages compared to traditional, metal braces:

Almost Invisible - Invisalign aligner trays are virtually invisible on the teeth so patients can straighten their teeth discretely.
Comfortable - Invisalign is made of smooth plastic that won't irritate the soft tissues the way the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces can.
Enjoy Your Favorite Foods - Invisalign aligner trays can be removed for meals which means you can continue enjoying all of your favorite foods.
No Lifestyle Changes - You don't have to worry about your Invisalign aligner trays becoming damaged or injuring your soft tissues during athletic activities.
Easy Care - With Invisalign, you can simply remove your aligners and then brush and floss your teeth as usual. There's no need for special oral hygiene tools or practices as is the case with traditional braces.
Fewer Appointments - Invisalign requires fewer, shorter dental examinations during the course of treatment compared to traditional braces.

The Invisalign Treatment Process: What to Expect When Straightening Your Teeth With Invisalign

The first step to treatment with Invisalign is a consultation. During this appointment, our dentist determines whether or not a patient is a candidate for Invisalign and if it is the best treatment option to help them meet their orthodontic treatment goals. We then use a digital scanner to take three-dimensional "impressions" of the patient's teeth. These impressions are then sent to Invisalign and used to design the patient's unique treatment plan and set of aligner trays.

Once the aligner trays are ready, we schedule an initial appointment with the patient. During this appointment, we provide the patient with instructions for using and wearing their aligner trays. We then schedule intermittent follow-up appointments to track and monitor the patient's treatment progress and results.

How Long Does Treatment With Invisalign Take?

The total length of treatment with Invisalign varies depending on the complexity of the case and treatment program. On average, Invisalign treatment can last anywhere from about three to 18 months. Of course, minor adjustments require less time and more moderate alignment issues will require longer treatment.

Are You a Candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is typically recommended for only mild and moderate orthodontic cases. More complex or severe alignment issues might require an alternative or combined course of treatment.

Additionally, Invisalign is only recommended for patients who are 16 years of age or older because it is essential that the wearer be responsible enough to keep their aligner trays in for at least 22 hours each day. It can often be difficult for younger patients to adhere to this treatment regimen, and this can adversely impact treatment results.

Alternative Orthodontic Treatment Options

The most common alternative to treatment with Invisalign is traditional, metal braces that use metal brackets and wires to move the teeth into the desired alignment. Other alternatives include tooth-colored ceramic braces and lingual braces (braces that are located on the backsides of the teeth).

Find Out If Invisalign Is Right for You With Our Dentist in West Lehi, Utah

If you'd like to straighten your smile but don't want to deal with the hassle of traditional, metal braces, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our dentist in West Lehi. We can talk with you about your treatment goals and preferences and examine your teeth to help you determine the best course of treatment for you.