As I mentioned in the previous issue, the major drawbacks of orthodontic appliances, or traditional braces including metal brackets and wires, is visible. Many patients never wear them for fear of looking unattractive during the bracing process. Invisalign® is a clear or “invisible” alternative to metal braces, while Invisalign® straightens your teeth, not with brackets or wires, but with a series of clear, customized, removable aligners without tightening and adjustments. Invisalign® trays are made of clear plastic, so they are practically invisible when they are on your teeth. There’s no unwarranted attention to your mouth. In fact, very few people will notice at all — unless you tell them. Another advantage over traditional braces is that the aligners can be taken out while eating, drinking or brushing and flossing because they are removable.
If you are an adult who has braces you usually feel slightly more traumatized than if you were a youngster. Simply because some adults take more care in their appearance, a disruption like braces can prevent smiling and other socially necessary protocols. However, when you place the Invisalign® system in your mouth, it immediately goes to work straightening your teeth, and you’ll feel it. But, if you have a presentation, a big date, or a meal, you can easily remove the system and enjoy these activities with your normal exposed teeth.
By using a series of clear, removable aligners, Invisalign® straightens your teeth with results you’ll notice sooner than you think. The course of treatment involves changing aligners approximately every two weeks, moving your teeth into straighter position step by step, until you have a more beautiful smile.
An average Invisalign® course of treatment takes about a year. You’ll see your Invisalign® certified dentist every six to eight weeks for adjustments and to check progress. At regular intervals, you’ll receive a new set of custom-molded clear aligners to continue the straightening process. The total number of clear aligners is specific to you, determined by your doctor for your course of treatment. Dr. Sun is certified to use Invisalign® to give you the smile you have always been looking for.
For more information, please call Dr. Sun at 661-799-8800, visit www.DrSunDDS.com or go to her dental office at 23450 Lyons Avenue, Suite B in Newhall.