Invisalign, the most common brand of invisible braces, are an effective and popular alternative to metal braces.
Whether you are interested in treatment options for yourself or Invisalign for a teen family member, the dentists and team at Midlothian Family Dentistry are here to help you explore your options and find the one that best suits you.
Many of our patients choose Invisalign because they give confidence in your smile, both during and after your treatment. We recommend them because they work!
Invisalign works similarly to metal braces as they gently straighten and correct your teeth over an extended period of time. Instead of using wires and rubber bands, Invisalign uses clear, custom aligners which are designed to fit exactly over your teeth. These removable aligners, which are also called trays, are built using a 3D scan and molds of your teeth to ensure a perfect fit. Depending upon the length of your treatment, you will receive a number of Invisalign trays that are to be worn in succession. Each is designed to gradually adjust your teeth, resulting in your desired smile.
It is important to note that while Invisalign aligners are removable, we recommend that patients wear them for at least 20 hours a day to achieve the best results. Additionally, much like traditional metal braces, you will have to wear a retainer following your Invisalign treatment to ensure your teeth remain in their desired position.
Whether you are interested in learning more about Invisalign or traditional braces for you or a family member, our practice is dedicated to providing you with exceptional and compassionate care. It is important to note that both treatment options are very effective and can result in a straighter and healthier smile. Deciding which option is best for your or your child largely depends on the amount of realignment and correction required.
The doctors and team at Midlothian Family Dentistry understand that it may be difficult to choose between which style of braces is best for you or your child and are here to answer all of your questions. Please schedule an appointment to learn more about your orthodontics treatment options and we’ll help find the one that is best for you.
The duration of your Invisalign treatment depends on how much correction your teeth require, but on average patients wear Invisalign for about 12 months. In comparison, patients will wear traditional braces for an average of 18 months. While invisible braces may be faster on average, the length of treatment is based on how complex your treatment is. We design each orthodontics plan specifically to you and your needs and will discuss anticipated treatment duration during your consultation.
We typically recommend that patients remove their invisible braces while playing a contact sport such as football. In general, if a sport requires you to wear a mouthguard, you should remove your Invisalign and use a mouthguard. It is important to note that invisible braces do not act as a substitute for a mouthpiece and cannot prevent a sports-related injury. If you are unsure if you should wear your Invisalign while playing a sport, please contact our office, we’re always happy to answer any questions you may have.
The duration of your Invisalign treatment depends on how much straightening or shifting is needed. On average, patients will use Invisalign for about 12 months. Your doctor will review your treatment during your consultation and provide you a customized treatment plan that will set you up for a lifetime of smiles.
The short answer is, yes. Invisalign braces are custom fit to your teeth, including any existing crowns or caps. Whether you have a dental crown for a cosmetic or structural reason, your Invisalign braces will comfortably fit over it.