Invisalign

    INVISALIGN

    Invisalign is a clear orthodontic aligner which is used to treat issues related to malocclusion. It works similar to dental braces, i.e., pressure is applied to the teeth to bring about a change in their alignment and position. In recent years, they have become highly sought after as they are virtually undetectable. This spares the patient from the embarrassment of using dental braces.

    Why Should You Opt for Invisalign?

    Crooked or misaligned teeth are said to affect over 74% of the individuals in the USA. Crooked teeth often lead to gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontal disease as they act as a breeding ground for microbes. If left untreated for a long time, misaligned teeth could lead to changes in the shape of the jawbone and also the loosening of the teeth from their sockets. Invisalign helps resolve many such malocclusion issues such as crowding of teeth, excessive spacing of teeth, teeth that look too long, and various types of bad bites.

    What Are the Advantages of Invisalign?

    • They are virtually invisible.
    • They can be used to treat various types of malocclusion issues, ranging from simple to complex issues.
    • The teeth movement can be predicted and controlled very precisely.
    • Performing daily activities such as chewing food, brushing, and flossing would not be affected.
    • They are removable.
    • Fewer visits to the dentist's office are required.
    • It is a confidence booster among teens.
    • The risk of injury is reduced.

    Advantages of Invisalign Over Braces and Other Clear Aligners

    • Invisalign can be used to treat both simple and complex cases. In contrast, other clear aligners can treat only simple malocclusion issues.
    • The movement of the teeth can be monitored closely and controlled. Neither braces nor other clear aligners allow dentists to do this.
    • One can eat different types of food without having to worry while using Invisalign. This isn't possible in the case of braces as the food particles may get stuck between them.
    • Brushing and flossing would be difficult in the case of braces. Invisalign, in contrast, doesn't affect such cleaning activities.
    • Invisalign doesn't require frequent visits to the dentist, i.e., one visit every four to six weeks would suffice. Meanwhile, braces and other aligners require more attention from the dentist.
    • Braces have sharp edges and brackets, which may injure the patient. There is no such risk involved with Invisalign.
    • Invisalign is removable, while braces are fixed.

    Procedure

    An initial screening process will be conducted where the dentist carefully examines the various malocclusion issues. Next, a panoramic X-ray, digital photos, and a digital scan will be taken and uploaded to a special computer where a 3D image of your dental structures will be made. 

    Based on this image, our orthodontist will use special software to create a treatment plan, determining how many aligners it would take to make the proper corrections and projecting how far your teeth should move with each aligner in the series. The treatment plan and the aligner designs are sent to the dental lab where they will be used as the basis for how the aligners will be fabricated. 

    When the aligners are finished, the first ones in the series will be given to you. You will be instructed to wear them at least 22 hours a day, every day for the next two weeks, after which you will need to switch to the next aligners in the series. You will also be instructed on how to put them on, take them off, and generally how to handle them. Regular checkups will be scheduled to check on the progress of the teeth’s movements. 

    When all the aligners have been used as prescribed, which could be after 10 to 24 months, the treatment ends. However, you might be required to wear retainers for a prescribed period to keep your teeth from moving back to their misaligned positions.

    Location

    826 Altos Oaks Dr Ste 1,
    Los Altos, CA 94024

    Office Hours

    MON - THU7:00 am - 4:00 pm

    FRIBy appointments only

    SAT - SUNClosed