Invisalign FAQ's Dr. David Gates Cosmetic and Family Dentistry - Invisible Braces, Comfortable, Removable, Painless, Clear, Nearly Invisible

INVISALIGN - FAQ's

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What is Invisalign®?
Does Invisalign® really work?
How does Invisalign® work?
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign®?
What are aligners made of?
What do aligners look like?
Is this a new way to straighten teeth?
Recommendations for Brushing with Invisalign

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the invisible new way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires.

Does Invisalign really work?
Yes. In both clinical research and in orthodontic and dental practices nationwide, Invisalign has been proven effective at straightening teeth.

How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made "Aligners" are produced. Each "Aligner" moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?

There are four primary benefits of Invisalign:

Invisalign is nearly invisible - you can straighten your teeth while looking your best. No metal brackets, no wires; You can smile, work, and play, without anyone knowing.
Invisalign is removable - you can eat and drink what you want in treatment; you can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
Invisalign is comfortable - there are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation; no metal or wires also means you spend less time in our office getting adjustments.
Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start - so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.

What are aligners made of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.

What do aligners look like?

Aligners are nearly invisible and look similar to clear tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists and dentists have referred to them as "contact lenses for teeth."

Is this a new way to straighten teeth?
For years, orthodontists and dentists have used removable appliances for limited treatment. Today, with the application of computer technology, Invisalign treats a broader range of cases with greater precision.

Recommendations for Brushing with Invisalign
Of course one of the big benefits of Invisalign is the fact that you can remove your aligners to brush, so you would brush just as well as you always have—except more often, and –we hope—a little more thoroughly. You should brush your teeth after each meal, and whenever you’ve eaten a snack. You just don’t want to get food or beverages up inside the aligner, and have it sit there for several hours. Not good. We have found that the best toothbrush to use both to clean your teeth, and to clean your aligners is the Sonicare ultrasonic toothbrush, which we have available at our office. The high speed vibrations created by the electric toothbrush help break down plaque, and are more effective at keeping your gums very healthy. Use a fluoride mouth rinse also. This gives your teeth extra strength to fight tooth decay and helps wash away plaque.