Invisalign is a great option to help straighten your teeth, whether for aesthetics, or dental necessity (bite issues, etc). The clear aligners fit snugly over your teeth, making them virtually invisible. Patients with crooked teeth, tooth gaps, crowded teeth, and other orthodontic problems benefit from Invisalign treatment. Invisalign is a beneficial cosmetic dental treatment for patients in Woodstock, MD, and the surrounding areas.
What are the Benefits of Invisalign?
Invisalign is the clear alternative to metal braces that helps your teeth to be comfortable as they are moved into position at a manageable pace. Treatment is also less noticeable because Invisalign uses clear aligners, as opposed to the metal wires, brackets, and colored bands used in traditional braces.
Additionally, patients can remove their aligners to eat and brush their teeth. Unlike braces, patients do not need to worry about food getting stuck in their orthodontic appliances. Invisalign offers an intuitive treatment for patients who want a discreet way to straighten their smiles.
Treatment with Invisalign in Woodstock, MD
There are multiple steps to Invisalign treatment:
1. First, we take iTero scans and map out how the teeth will move during the treatment process. The scans make three-dimensional images of the current smile. Then, using iTero technology’s outcome simulator, we can show patients a digital model of the planned outcome of treatment.
2. We then make dental impressions to send to a lab for fabrication. The dental lab will create custom Invisalign aligners that slowly move teeth into a straighter position.
3. Over a period of months, the aligners will slowly move your teeth into place, making minor adjustments until they are straightened to the final position that Dr. Mazzella has prescribed. Each aligner set is different and changed out every two weeks as the teeth slowly shift. The number of aligners you require and your treatment time will depend on your orthodontic needs and goals.
Invisalign Q&A
Learn more about Invisalign treatment with answers to these common questions:
Am I an Invisalign candidate?
We typically recommend Invisalign treatment for teens and adults who have all of their permanent teeth. Invisalign is a good option for patients who have mild to moderate orthodontic problems but do not need braces.
How do I care for my smile and Invisalign aligners during treatment?
Invisalign aligners are removable, which means patients can eat without restrictions against hard or crunchy foods. We recommend that patients brush their teeth after eating and before placing their aligners back on their teeth. Additionally, patients can clean their Invisalign aligners using soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Patients can wear their Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day.
Can I wear my Invisalign aligners at night?
Yes, because patients should wear their aligners over 20 hours a day, they should also wear their oral appliances at night. Patients with TMJ problems like teeth clenching and grinding should not undergo Invisalign treatment unless they receive treatment.
Will Invisalign affect my speech when I first start wearing the aligners?
Yes, it’s possible to notice a slight lisp or change in your speech during the first few days of wearing Invisalign. This usually happens as your tongue adjusts to the aligners. For most people, the change is temporary and goes away as they get used to speaking with them in place. Regular speaking practice helps speed up the adjustment.
Can I participate in sports or play instruments with Invisalign?
Yes, you can continue playing sports and instruments while wearing Invisalign. For contact sports, it’s a good idea to remove your aligners and wear a proper mouthguard to protect your teeth and the aligners. Musicians may need a short adjustment period when playing wind or brass instruments, but most adapt quickly.
Can I whiten my teeth while using Invisalign?
In many cases, yes. Some patients use whitening gel inside their aligners as they wear them, but it’s important to check with your dentist first. Not all whitening products are compatible with aligner material. Dr. Mazzella can recommend a safe and effective option. Keep in mind that whitening may not affect areas under attachments or buttons evenly.
Straighten Your Smile
Do you have crooked or misaligned teeth? Are you interested in Invisalign treatment? Call (410) 559-9951 or schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Mazzella online.