Orthodontics is the specialty branch of dentistry that corrects teeth that are crowded, protruding, or too far apart. Until recently, orthodontic treatment was focused mainly on children and teenagers, and the preferred method was metal band & bracket braces. Today, about 20% of orthodontic patients are between twenty and sixty years of age – and millions of them have chosen to straighten their teeth discreetly with Invisalign® clear aligners.

Invisalign has quickly revolutionized the world of orthodontics because there are now other options available to straighten your teeth besides metal, ceramic, or clear braces. You may want to visit an orthodontist in Plano to start Invisalign treatment, and you probably want to investigate your braces and aligner options. Or perhaps you have general questions since this decision affects your overall quality of life.

Here’s how Invisalign works.

During your free consultation, we’ll decide together if Invisalign is the right choice for you. We will create a treatment plan, take a digital impression of your teeth (no more goop!), and using some amazing technology, will design your new smile together. Then we’ll submit your smile design and digital impressions off to Invisalign who will translate our instructions into a series of medical-grade plastic aligners. Each one of your comfortable aligners is precisely calibrated and manufactured to fit snugly over your teeth and gently move them through every stage of your treatment plan.

Every two weeks, you will receive a new set of aligners that slowly move your teeth towards their ideal positions. Compared to braces that are attached to your teeth, the Invisalign process allows you to take the clear aligners off whenever you want. Playing sports, eating your favorite foods, and even playing a musical wind instrument are possible during Invisalign treatment. However, if you want the best results, we recommend wearing the clear aligners for 20-22 hours every day.

What to expect after treatment?

The technology that is used to develop these aligners is quite robust, meaning you’ll be able to see what your teeth will look like after your treatment plan is complete – before you even start! So, there won’t be any surprises or false expectations of what Invisalign can do to help your smile.

When teeth are misaligned, they can be difficult to clean. Gaps and crowding can worsen the buildup of bacteria, making the development of periodontal problems likely. The resulting gum disease has been linked to overall health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and a host of other systemic troubles. This illustrates the need for straighter teeth – not just for looks, but for your health.

Once treatment is complete, your bite will be correct and stress on the supporting bones and jaw joints relieved. And, of course, your proud smile will be bright and beautiful.

You’ll smile more during treatment and you’ll spend less time in our office at Pearce Orthodontics having adjustments! If you’re inspired and think you’re a candidate for Invisalign, please call to arrange a consultation. We want you to feel happy and confident about your smile!