One of the main drawbacks of orthodontics, devices worn to correct gaps, rotations and overlaps in your teeth is their visibility. Traditionally, braces consist of metal, plastic or ceramic brackets glued to the teeth and holding a tightening wire in place. While braces produce beautiful results, many would-be clients never wear them for fear of looking unattractive during the process.
Invisalign® is a state-of-the-art alternative to braces. Invisalign® straightens your teeth, not with brackets or wires, but with a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. Invisalign® trays are made of clear plastic, so they are practically invisible when they are on your teeth. The primary advantage of Invisalign® is cosmetic because the aligners are difficult to detect, virtually invisible and therefore has become particularly popular among adults who want to straighten their teeth without the unflattering look of traditional metal braces. Another advantage over traditional braces is that the aligners can be taken out while eating, drinking or brushing and flossing because they are removable.
Invisalign® is effective for people with crowded teeth or teeth with spaces between them. Treatment with Invisalign® takes about six to 12 months, but the duration of treatment may vary based on the severity of your case. Your dentist’s instructions are translated by Invisalign® into a series of nearly undetectable aligners using an advanced 3-D computer technology. Each of these aligners should be worn for about two weeks, gradually moving your teeth until you achieve the desired results. As with all orthodontic appliances, the cost of Invisalign® varies according to the complexity of the case. However, Invisalign® is generally more expensive than traditional braces. Insurance policies generally cover Invisalign® to the same extent that they cover traditional braces.
If you are a candidate for braces, you are likely a candidate for Invisalign® as well. However, only dentists and orthodontists who have attended a special workshop can prescribe and oversee Invisalign® treatment, so you may have to shop around a bit to find one. Dr. Sun is certified to use Invisalign® to give you the smile you have always been looking for. More information about Invisalign will be provided in next issue.
For more information, please call Dr. Sun at 661-799-8800, visit the website of www.DrSunDDS.com or go to her dental office at 23450 Lyons Avenue, Suite B in Newhall.