Whether you're the parent of a teenager with a crooked grin or an adult considering orthodontia, you've probably heard of Invisalign. For many Rochester, NY individuals, this method offers a flexible, rapid, and comfortable solution for misaligned teeth.
While we do not provide in-office orthodontics, we do help patients make important decisions about bite correction and cosmetic dental procedures.
If you feel interested in Invisalign, our Rochester, NY staff can match you with the right orthodontist so you can achieve your best smile. Read on to learn more about this orthodontic option.
How Invisalign Works
Orthodontists provide patients with Invisalign as an alternative to traditional metal braces or modern ceramic braces. When you use Invisalign in Rochester, NY, the process will be as follows:
- Evaluation:
One of our dentists sends you to an experienced Invisalign provider. This provider will determine if Invisalign is the best choice for you.
- Treatment plan:
For most adults, Invisalign takes approximately a year. However, your time frame may differ according to the current position of your teeth, your oral health, or your age. Your provider creates a digital model to help him or her better predict how long your treatment will take.
- Fitting:
Then, your provider creates a clear retainer that fits over your teeth. This retainer puts a small amount of pressure on your teeth to straighten them over time.
- Progressive treatment:
About every two weeks for the duration of your treatment plan, you'll make an appointment with your provider and receive a new aligner.
Benefits of Invisalign
In many ways, Invisalign compares to other forms of orthodontics. However, some patients opt for Invisalign because this method offers the following benefits:
- Discretion:
Because Invisalign retainers consist of a clear, strong plastic, they remain mostly invisible. This feature makes Invisalign a good option for patients who feel self-conscious about their teeth or have a career which discourages traditional braces, such as modeling or acting.
- Flexibility:
Patients can remove Invisalign retainers whenever needed. This characteristic appeals to athletes, musicians who play wind or brass instruments, and patients who dislike the idea of changing their diet while in orthodontic care.
- Simplicity:
Traditional braces require slightly more effort to care for than natural teeth. Because Invisalign retainers are removable, they do not inhibit or even change a patient's oral hygiene routine.