The Power of Invisalign: Get Straighter Teeth Today

You're sitting in the dentist's chair, getting ready to be tilted back and have your mouth prodded and poked. It's not a pleasant experience, but it's something that you have to do every six months or so. As the dentist starts to examine your teeth, you can't help but feel a little self-conscious. Your teeth are not as straight as they used to be. In fact, they're starting to look a little bit like a crooked smile.

But then the dentist tells you about Invisalign. Invisalign is a new way to straighten teeth and is much less invasive than traditional braces. With Invisalign, you wear clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place. And since the aligners are practically invisible, nobody will even know that you're wearing them. That's the power of Invisalign. 

Read on to learn everything else you need to know about Invisalign.

The Power of Invisalign

Invisalign is an excellent option for people who are self-conscious about their teeth, but it's also a great choice for people who want to avoid the pain and discomfort of traditional braces. And since they're removable, you can eat and drink whatever you want while wearing them. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. So if you're considering Invisalign, here are a few answers to your most common questions.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a transparent aligner system that straightens teeth without using metal brackets or wires. The power of Invisalign aligners is that they are made of smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that won't irritate your gums as traditional metal braces can.

How Does Invisalign Work?

The Invisalign system uses a series of clear, customized, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move slowly, week by week, until they've reached their final desired position.

What Do Invisalign Power Ridges Do?

The power of Invisalign power ridges is that these small plastic bumps help the aligner grip your teeth and move them into place. They're only used when your dentist or orthodontist feels they'll help get you the desired results.

Power ridges come in two different shapes: crescent-shaped and rectangular. Crescent-shaped power ridges are used to help move the crown of your tooth up or down. Rectangular power ridges help move your tooth from side to side.

Are My Teeth Strong Enough for Invisalign?

In most cases, yes. However, Invisalign may not be your best treatment option if you have fragile teeth. Your dentist or orthodontist can tell you if your teeth are strong enough for Invisalign.

How Long Does It Take to Get Straight Teeth with Invisalign?

Treatment times vary depending on the individual. For example, one person might wear their Invisalign aligners for three months, while another might wear them for nine months. However, on average, treatment times range from six to 18 months.

Which Straightens Teeth Faster, Braces or Invisalign?

The answer to this question depends on each individual case. Invisalign can sometimes straighten teeth faster than braces, but it depends on the misalignment's severity. For example, if you have an extreme overbite, you might have to wear braces for longer to correct it.

Does Invisalign Straighten Wisdom Teeth?

No, Invisalign usually does not straighten wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the very back molars that typically come in during your late teens or early twenties. They're usually removed by a dentist or an oral surgeon rather than treated with orthodontic appliances like braces or Invisalign.

However, in some cases, wisdom teeth can be straightened with Invisalign. It depends on the positioning of your wisdom teeth and how they're growing. Your dentist or orthodontist can tell you if Invisalign can straighten your wisdom teeth.

How Much Does Invisalign Teeth Straightening Cost?

Just like the length of treatment varies from person to person, so does the cost. Several factors are considered when determining the price of Invisalign treatment, such as the severity of your case and how long you will need to wear the aligners. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to consult an orthodontist or dentist trained in Invisalign treatment. They will be able to give you a more specific quote based on your individual needs.

Are There Any Side Effects of Invisalign?

The most common side effect of Invisalign is mild discomfort when you first start wearing the aligners or switch to a new set. This is perfectly normal and should go away within a few days.

Other side effects can include:

• Dry mouth: Since Invisalign aligners cover your teeth, they can cause you to produce less saliva. This can lead to a feeling of dryness in your mouth. To help combat this, make sure you're drinking plenty of water and chewing sugar-free gum.
• Irritated gums: Your gums may feel sore or tender when you first start wearing Invisalign. This is because the aligners put gentle pressure on your gums as they move your teeth into place. The soreness should go away within a few days.
• Mild headaches: Some people report mild headaches when they first start wearing Invisalign. Again, this is usually just due to the pressure of the aligners on your teeth. The headaches should go away within a few days.

If you experience any side effects that are severe or persistent, please consult with your orthodontist or dentist.

Will My Teeth Stay Straight After Invisalign?

Yes, the power of Invisalign is that your teeth will stay straight after treatment as long as you wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist or dentist. Once your treatment is complete, you'll be given a retainer to wear at night. Wearing your retainer will help to keep your teeth in their new, straight position.

If you don't wear your retainer, there's a chance that your teeth will start to shift back into their previous positions. So it's essential to follow your orthodontist's or dentist's instructions when it comes to wearing your retainer.

Why Having Straight Teeth is Important

Invisalign is an excellent way to straighten teeth and get the smile you've always wanted. With Invisalign, you can avoid metal brackets and wires because treatment is usually quicker than with braces. If you're considering teeth straightening, be sure to talk to your dentist or orthodontist about whether the power of Invisalign is right for you.