Who Makes a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Patients who seem to appreciate Invisalign the best are teens and adults with moderate orthodontic problems. When cases are very severe or complex, a more precise type of tooth control method may be needed. When it comes to orthodontic problems, the dentist Simi Valley residents trust the most is Elite Dental Implant Center. We can help you determine if Invisalign makes a good fit for you at your initial consultation.

How Does Invisalign Work?

After we have determined that Invisalign makes a good treatment choice for you, we can start by taking a detailed 3-D scan of your teeth and mouth. The results are used to tailor-make the special aligners that you will be wearing as part of the Invisalign system. We will also use these results to completely map out a detailed treatment plan just for you. This plan lays out the steps needed to shift your teeth into the correct position, as well as providing some indication of the length of your treatment.

Since every patient is different, the number of aligners that you will eventually need is based upon your unique situation. Some orthodontic patients require as little as a dozen, while others require up to 48 aligners. Although the time length of your treatment can vary, the average treatment time is between 6 and 15 months.

Although Invisalign works similarly to conventional braces, there is a key difference to note. Unlike braces, you are able to remove your aligners, even when you should not. For this reason, your success depends upon your compliance with the treatment and our recommendations. After receiving your initial set of aligners, you will need to wear them up to 22 hours daily until your treatment is complete. They also require switching periodically to continue moving your teeth.

What Should I Be Doing or Not Doing When Being Treated With Invisalign?

One thing that you should do is rinse your aligners every time you remove them, since bacteria may be found on them. Keep your trays clean and sanitized according to our instructions. You should also brush and floss your teeth so that food is not trapped there to harbor bacteria.

Only consume water when wearing your aligners to prevent them from becoming stained or developing odors. Clean your aligners using a nonabrasive toothpaste. Do not heat your aligners or soak them in mouthwash.

What Should I Do Once My Invisalign Treatment Is Complete?

No matter if you are using a removable or fixed orthodontic appliance, your teeth are actually able to remember their former spots in your mouth. Eventually, they can begin drifting back into these former spaces. That is why you need to use your retainers as directed so that you can maintain your Invisalign results.

What Are Some Alternatives to Invisalign?

The alternative that most people are familiar with is conventional metal braces. Metal braces have actually come a long way since older generations wore them. They are no longer as bulky and obtrusive as they were in the past. However, it is still difficult to overcome the stigma that traditional metal braces have developed.

How Can I Learn More about Invisalign or Schedule an Appointment?

If you would like more information about Invisalign we encourage patients to reach out to our dentist in Simi Valley at Elite Dental Implant Center to request more information or schedule a consultation.

Location: 1720 E Los Angeles Ave #224 Simi Valley, CA 93065