Invisalign Point, CA

Invisalign Treatment

Many patients prefer Invisalign over metal braces because they are more effective, and they make it easier to care for your teeth as you are going through treatment. Since the liner aligners can be easily removed, the patient can thoroughly brush and floss their teeth every day, no matter how long they need to wear them. With metal braces, not only does food sometimes get stuck, but it can be difficult to get at tiny particles of food, never mind being unable to brush the teeth that are covered by the metal bracket. There are also no food restrictions with Invisalign. You can eat whatever you want by just removing the aligners.

Many people wonder if Invisalign treatments will hurt. The good news is that although there is some pressure that the aligners put on the teeth in order to straighten them, the majority of our patients are not bothered by this pressure. There may be times when there is some discomfort – such as when a patient is given new aligners – but the pain level is low, and the discomfort only lasts for a couple of days at most.

The aligners used in treatment are very easy to keep clean. Your orthodontist may provide you with a cleaning system that will take care of the process, but patients can also use lukewarm water and a toothbrush when they are somewhere and don’t have the system with them. It is important to note, however, that patients should never use hot water on aligners. The high temperature could cause the aligners to warp.

One way to effectively keep the aligners clean is to make sure that you brush and floss your teeth. This keeps any bacteria from growing on the aligners. If a patient fails to keep the aligners clean, they will begin to yellow, no longer staying transparent.

If you would like to learn more about how Invisalign may be the right choice for you, call John Redmond Orthodontists to chat with a representative about Dana Point, California invisalign today.

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign aligners are made of a transparent, flexible, patented thermoplastic material. Unlike braces, they are removable and convenient. The trays are custom-made precisely to fit your mouth so they can shift your teeth gradually over time to create a wonderful smile. Depending on your short- and long-term smile correction goals, you will wear each aligner for two weeks to a few months. Your dental professional, such as those at John Redmond Orthodontics, will create new aligners during the process to gradually straighten your teeth. Throughout the treatment process of Invisalign in Dana Point, CA, you must wear the aligners whenever you’re not eating, drinking, brushing or flossing.

How Does the Invisalign Process Advance

Consultation

On your initial visit to your orthodontist, they will discuss your health history and, more specifically, your dental health. This consultation will help determine Invisalign will work for your needs and the best treatment option for you.

X-rays and Scans

If the initial consultation determines you will probably be a good candidate, the doctor will likely take X-rays and scans of your mouth. These pictures will help determine if Invisalign will work for your needs.

Impression

If the doctor thinks you’re a good candidate, they will take an impression of your mouth, creating a mold to send to the Invisalign headquarters. There, the Invisalign professionals will devise your treatment plan. The orthodontist handling your Invisalign in Dana Point, CA, will make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan give Invisalign the approval to begin.

Aligner Fabrication

The professionals at Invisalign will use 3-D modeling and CAD/CAM fabrication to design your aligner trays. Invisalign will send the trays to your doctor, and you will return to their office to learn how to wear your aligners for the best results and how to properly take care of them and your teeth.

Straightening

You will soon begin noticing that your teeth are straightening. Usually, the orthodontist will give you three sets of aligners to take you from one phase to the next. You will begin wearing your aligners 20 to 22 hours daily.

Checkups

Checkups are typically every six to eight weeks as long as everything goes according to plan with your Invisalign in Dana Point, CA. If you’re experiencing extreme discomfort or any other problem, you should call your dental professional.

New Aligners

As the process continues and your teeth straighten, Invisalign will create new molds and send them to your doctor. The process advances until your teeth are straight and you have the beautiful smile you’ve been anticipating!

Benefits of Invisalign

Many people love Invisalign because they can correct their smile while also using clear and removable straighteners. The teeth trays gradually align without the discomfort that often accompanies wearing traditional braces. Not only will you be happier with your smile, but you will experience other health advantages too. For example, you are decreasing your risk of gum disease by improving the function of your bite. Invisalign can also address issues related to the jaw. Uneven bite problems can result in more serious dental health complications later on, including tooth loss, gum infection, cavities, and enamel erosion.

Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign corrects crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth through a series of disposable and comfortable aligners. Your dentist will provide you with a series of aligners to bring home with you along with instructions on how to replace then. Once a duration of time has passed, you will simply replace the aligners with a new set. Each tray set is numbered, so it’s easy to track!

Being able to quickly swap out a pair of new aligners saves you recurrent visits to the dentist. Of course, we are always happy to have you come in and do an exam if you feel as though the series isn’t working for you. In summary, the benefits for choosing Invisalign include but are limited to:

• Being easier to clean
• Less dental visits
• It looks better on your teeth
• More comfort
• No food adjustments
• Safe for all ages
• Fixes dental problems

Orthodontics can help fix crowding, bite, and jaw issues, reducing the chances of getting gum disease and frequent cavities. If you are interested in learning more, we suggest calling our clinic right away so we can begin your consultation. We will be honest when it comes to answering your questions and hope that you consider Invisalign for yourself or your entire family!

3 Common Myths About Invisalign

Anyone who is seeking orthodontic treatment has undoubtedly heard of Invisalign. This form of treatment is relatively new, as it was invented around 20 years ago. Despite its short existence, it has become one of the most popular ways for people to straighten their teeth. If you’re considering getting Invisalign to straighten your teeth instead of traditional braces, you should know some of the common myths surrounding it. 

Myth 1: Invisalign Shortens Treatment Time

One of the most common myths about the Invisalign system is that it shortens your treatment time. Unfortunately, this tends to not be the case. Whether you choose Invisalign or traditional braces, your treatment time will be about the same. In the first couple of appointments with your orthodontist, you’ll be given a synopsis of your treatment plan. This will dictate how long you’ll need to keep your braces on and what measures need to be taken to straighten them. While getting Invisalign in Dana Point, CA, may not lower your treatment time, it can keep your teeth healthier. Stain and decay prevention is easier when you wear Invisalign aligners, so ask your orthodontist about trying them. 

Myth 2: Invisalign Is Only For Minor Cases

Another common myth about getting Invisalign in Dana Point, CA, is that it only treats minor cases. While Invisalign can’t treat as many different cases as traditional braces, the system does treat a wide variety of issues. Things such as crowding, overbites, underbites, and missing teeth have all been corrected by Invisalign aligners since their inception. If you’re unsure about whether your teeth can be corrected by Invisalign, contact John Redmond Orthodontics. These professionals can give you an assessment of your mouth and let you know what form of braces would suit you best. 

Myth 3: Only Adults Can Use Invisalign

Finally, the notion that only adults can use the Invisalign system is a myth. This system of straightening can be used on anyone who has lost their baby teeth, so it’s perfectly safe for teenagers and young adults. Getting Invisalign in Dana Point, CA, from John Redmond Orthodontics can be done on any mature teeth, from pre-teens to older adults. If you have a child who is considering Invisalign, one of your worries may be that they’ll lose their aligners. Studies done by the Invisalign company have shown that young people aren’t more likely to lose their aligners than adults are, so there’s no need to worry. No matter what age you are, you should feel comfortable with your teeth. Ask your orthodontist about Invisalign for your straightening process. 

Is Invisalign Right for You?

If you are considering teeth straightening options, you may want to speak with your dentist about Invisalign treatment. At John Redmond Orthodontics, our patients have had great success with Invisalign and would be happy to discuss how this type of treatment could benefit you.

Unlike bulky metal bands and wires like other types of orthodontic treatments, Invisalign aligners are clear, making them invisible on your teeth. The aligners are custom-made just for you, which allows a snug fit of the aligners on your teeth. Each aligner is designed to place the exact amount of force needed to move your teeth in the right place at the right time.

Cosmetic Issues Invisalign Can Correct

• Gaps between Teeth: Whether from missing teeth or abnormal growth of the jawbone, gaps that develop can cause serious issues if left, including periodontal pockets and periodontal disease.
• Overcrowded Teeth: When there is not enough room within the jaw for all of the teeth to fit, teeth can become extremely crooked. This lack of space for teeth can cause the accumulation of plaque, which often leads to gum disease and tooth decay.
• Crossbite:When the lower and upper jaws do not line up, this can cause some of the upper teeth to fall on the inside of the lower teeth instead of the outside when the patient bites down. This condition can wear down the teeth and also cause gum disease, as well as bone loss.
• Open Bite: When some of a patient’s teeth are unable to make contact with opposing teeth, this is referred to as open bite. This can occur because of thumb sucking or can be from an abnormal structure of the jaw. If left untreated, open bites can lead to painful chewing, speech impairment, or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
• Overbite:When upper teeth bite over the lower teeth, this is referred to as an overbite. Patients with overbites can have issues with wear on lower teeth, and gum or jaw problems.
• Underbite: The opposite of an overbite, an underbite is when the lower teeth sit past the upper teeth. This can occur because of the missing upper teeth or issues with how the jaw grows. Underbites can interfere with the way the molars and front teeth function, causing painful jaw problems.

FAQs About Invsalign

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces that use wires and brackets, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and removable, offering a discreet and flexible option for improving your smile. The process involves using 3D computer imaging technology to map out the complete treatment plan from the initial position of the teeth to the final desired position. Then, a series of custom aligners are created that apply gentle pressure to the teeth, moving them slowly over time. Patients typically switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, as prescribed by their orthodontist, gradually guiding their teeth into the correct alignment.

Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is suitable for teenagers and adults looking for a less visible orthodontic treatment option. It can effectively treat a wide range of dental issues, including crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and other malocclusions. However, the treatment might not be ideal for cases that are extremely complex or require significant tooth movement. A good candidate for Invisalign is someone committed to wearing the aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day and who is willing to follow their orthodontist’s instructions closely. An initial consultation with an orthodontist is the best way to determine if Invisalign is the right choice for your specific needs.

How long does Invisalign treatment typically last?

The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and how well the patient complies with the treatment plan, especially the requirement to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. On average, Invisalign treatment lasts between 12 to 18 months, though some patients may see results in as little as 6 months, while others may need up to 24 months or longer. Regular follow-up appointments with your orthodontist are essential to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

What are the main benefits of choosing Invisalign over traditional braces?

The main benefits of choosing Invisalign over traditional braces include aesthetics, comfort, and convenience. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them a discreet option for straightening teeth without the noticeable appearance of metal braces. They are also removable, allowing for easier cleaning of the teeth and no dietary restrictions, as users can take them out while eating or drinking anything other than water. Additionally, many patients find the smooth, plastic aligners to be more comfortable than metal brackets and wires, which can irritate the cheeks and gums. However, the effectiveness of Invisalign depends on the patient’s commitment to wearing the aligners as prescribed.

How do you care for your teeth and Invisalign aligners during treatment?

Caring for your teeth and Invisalign aligners during treatment is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of the treatment and maintaining oral health. It is important to brush and floss your teeth after every meal or snack before reinserting the aligners to prevent trapping food and bacteria against your teeth, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. The aligners themselves should be cleaned regularly with Invisalign cleaning crystals or by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the aligners. Additionally, patients should avoid eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing the aligners to prevent staining them. Following these care instructions can help keep your teeth healthy and your aligners clear throughout the treatment process.

Contact an Invisalign Orthodontist Today

The results of Invisalign treatment are much quicker than traditional metal and wire braces. Your orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan specifically for you. The clear aligners allow you to actually see progress as it is happening. Invisalign also allows you better access and better success at dental hygiene. With traditional braces, it is difficult to do a thorough job with brushing and flossing because the apparatuses get in the way. But Invisalign aligners easily pop in and out, allowing you to brush and floss the teeth directly.

We understand that feeling confident about your smile can increase your self-esteem and make you happier overall. We have seen just how pleased our patients are after using Invisalign, and can share testimonials with you if you wish. Do not hesitate to get started on improving your oral health, as you will surely thank yourself later! By taking steps now to enhance your dental care, you are helping ward against developing serious conditions of the mouth.

We are a team of dedicated dental professionals who strive to provide quality services and excellent customer service. Whether it is you, your child, our spouse, or another loved one who needs dental care, please consider calling us today to have your questions answered. If you would like to find out more about Invisalign in Dana Point, California from John Redmond Orthodontics, call today for a consultation.

Request Your Appointment