Invisalign offers many advantages when compared to traditional metal braces. The aligners can be removed allowing you to eat and drink what you like without limitations. You can brush and floss normally making it much easier to keep teeth and gums healthy during treatment. Best of all, when you choose Invisalign to correct your teeth, OR Child Teeth it’s virtually impossible for others to notice! Invisalign is also a great option for athletes as they do not present the same injury risks as metal braces.
In recent years a lot of options have come to the market with respect to clear aligners. Our office has chosen to consistently use Invisalign as we have seen consistent results. Invisalign also offers the largest library of past patient cases and proprietary plastics and technologies which we have yet to see from any of the alternatives in the market. As you will see below, the process is also extremely simple and straightforward.
Step 1: iTero Scan
Invisalign treatment involves Dr Patel taking a scan of the patient’s teeth, the scan is then used to create a digital model for her to work with. The scanner would essentially take hundreds of 3D pictures via a handheld wand, the pictures are then stitched together usingn proprietary software to comprehensive 3D image of your teeth and gums. Using the computerized model, Dr Patel can create various stages between your current, and desired teeth positions. The entire scanning process usually takes about 5 minutes and is a completely pain free process.
Step 2: Making your Aligners
After the iTero scanning is finished. Dr Patel will then use the 3D images to create clear aligners. The clear aligners are made from a patented SmartTrack material which is the result of over 8 years of testing with more than 200 materials tested. Each set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks, and then you will move on to the next aligner in the series. Aligners are worn for a minimum of 20- 22 hours per day and are only removed to eat, brush and floss. Each aligner shifts your teeth slightly and applies just the right amount of force in the right place at the right time. Each case is different, but on average, Invisalign treatment lasts about one to two years.
