Invisalign is one of the best alternatives to traditional metal braces. This cosmetic dental treatment consists of clear aligners instead of noticeable brackets and colorful rubber bands. Our office works with a dental laboratory to create custom-fit aligners for your needs. We offer Invisalign Greenville, TX for patients with a wide variety of teeth types and to correct a mixture of dental issues.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign orthodontic treatment consists of many sets of clear aligners. You will wear each set for about one to two weeks at a time. The number of aligners you will wear depends on your treatment plan and your desired results. When you wear them, the aligners will gently push your teeth into a certain position. Once your teeth reach this position, you move on to the next set and so on until the desired results are achieved.
The aligners are made of a patented material called SmartTrack. It consists of medical-grade polymer and other materials. This allows the aligners to be clear, thin, yet very strong, comfortable, and flexible. Invisalign aligners are made from molds of your teeth so they will fit perfectly in your mouth.
Am I a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Most people with mild to moderate orthodontic issues will qualify for clear aligners. If you have major orthodontic issues, you will most likely need traditional braces as Invisalign does not possess the same force as they do. To determine if you qualify for Invisalign clean aligners, you will need to schedule a consultation with your dentist. Dr. Marshall will examine your teeth to see this is the right treatment for you. Invisalign is an appropriate treatment for teens who are mature enough and capable of properly caring for them. This is an orthodontic treatment that must be removed daily and can therefore be easily lost. Teens and adults can use clear aligners to treat many orthodontic issues including:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Crowded Teeth
- Gap Teeth
- Open Bite
- Crooked Teeth
Invisalign Treatment in Greenville, TX
Invisalign is available for children, teens, and adults. So if you are tired of your crooked teeth or bite, Invisalign provides a perfect solution to fix your teeth while still being able to smile like you always have! Not to mention, we are some of the most knowledgeable in the Greenville area regarding Invisalign!
Before Invisalign treatment, we ensure that patients are in good oral health. Then, we take intraoral scans of the teeth. We send these scans to a dental lab to create the series of plastic Invisalign aligners. You will wear each pair of aligners for two weeks, then switch out your aligners for a new pair. Each set of aligners differs as they gradually shift teeth into a straighter position.
Once your Invisalign treatment is over, you will have the retainers to wear at night to keep your teeth from shifting over time. If you have problems with clenching or grinding, a mouthguard may be the perfect solution. Our dentist can provide you with a custom-fitted mouthguard to preserve and protect your teeth for a smile that will last a lifetime.
Invisalign vs Traditional Braces
Invisalign and traditional braces are both effective orthodontic treatments designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. However, they differ significantly in terms of aesthetics, comfort, maintenance, and treatment duration.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners made of smooth plastic. These aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position. One of the primary advantages of Invisalign is the aligners are virtually invisible, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking a more discreet treatment. The aligners are also removable, allowing for easier oral hygiene and the ability to eat without restrictions. Invisalign is often considered more comfortable than traditional braces, as it doesn’t involve wires or brackets that can cause irritation to the soft tissues inside the mouth.
Traditional metal braces consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth and connected by wires. This system exerts continuous pressure, gradually guiding teeth into the correct alignment. While metal braces are more noticeable, they are often a more suitable option for complex orthodontic issues. They are particularly effective in cases of severe misalignment or when significant bite correction is required.
In terms of maintenance, Invisalign offers convenience as the aligners can be removed for eating and cleaning. However, you need to wear them for at least 22 hours per day for the best results. Traditional braces require careful cleaning around wires and brackets, and dietary restrictions are necessary to prevent damage.
Treatment duration varies for both options. Invisalign generally provides a shorter treatment time for mild to moderate cases, while traditional braces may be required for more complex orthodontic issues, potentially extending the treatment duration.
Invisalign FAQs
Below, we will answer common questions about Invisalign in Greenville, TX:
Does Invisalign treatment hurt?
Invisalign treatment might cause some discomfort, but it’s usually not painful. When you start wearing a new set of aligners, your teeth may feel sore for a day or two. This happens because the aligners gently move your teeth into a new position. The soreness is a normal part of the process and should go away as your teeth adjust.
Can I get Invisalign if I’ve had braces before?
Yes, you can get Invisalign even if you’ve had braces before! Many people who had braces as a child or teen choose Invisalign later in life to fix minor issues that developed after their braces came off. These issues might include small gaps, teeth that have shifted, or a mild bite problem.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign aligners in?
No, you should not eat or drink with your Invisalign aligners in. Remove them before you eat or drink anything, except for water. Eating or drinking with the aligners in can damage them or cause them to get stained. Food can also get trapped under the aligners, leading to bacteria buildup and bad odors.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on how much your teeth need to move, but most people wear their aligners for about 12 to 18 months. Some people may need less time, and others may need more, depending on their needs.
What happens if I don’t wear my aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day?
If you don’t wear your Invisalign aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day, your treatment might take longer to complete. The aligners work by putting pressure on your teeth to move them into the right position, and wearing them less than needed can slow down that process.
Also, not wearing them enough could cause your teeth to shift back to their original position. This may mean you’ll need to wear the same aligners for a longer period or even use new sets to get the desired results.
What should I do if I lose an aligner during treatment?
If you lose an aligner during your Invisalign treatment, don’t panic! Let us know if you’ve lost your aligner. If you’ve just lost your current set, you can go back to wearing the previous set of aligners temporarily until you get a replacement.
Try not to skip wearing aligners for too long, as this could cause your teeth to shift and make your treatment take longer. We can provide you with a new aligner or advise you on the next steps based on your treatment plan.
Can Invisalign help with teeth grinding or clenching at night?
We do not recommend that you wear Invisalign aligners if you have bruxism. However, straightening your teeth can reduce your risk of teeth clenching and grinding. Crooked teeth increase pressure on your jaw and facial muscles, increasing the risk of grinding.
How much is Invisalign?
The cost of Invisalign treatment can vary based on how much your teeth need to move and how long treatment will take. After looking at your specific needs, we will give you a more accurate price. Some dental insurance plans may cover part of the cost. Our office also accepts Alphaeon and Care Credit.
Straighten Your Smile With Invisalign in Greenville, TX
Do you need orthodontic care but don’t want braces? Ask us about treatment with modern, transparent aligners. Contact Wesley Dental for Invisalign treatment today at 903-270-5279 or schedule a dental appointment on our website. Are you unsure if Invisalign is right for your smile? Ask us for a consultation, and we will help.