Many of our patients come to us seeking an alternative to traditional metallic braces. They are looking for a discreet method of improving their smile while also maintaining their current smile aesthetics during treatment. As your trusted cosmetic dentist in Marietta, GA, we wanted to answer some frequently asked questions regarding Invisalign to help you make the best decision for your smile. Here are some answers to the most common questions we get regarding this service:
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that gradually applies pressure to your teeth and encourages them to shift into a straighter position. The aligners are designed specifically for your smile to fit snuggly and discreetly over your teeth. They are made from a plastic, see-through material that allows you to maintain your current smile aesthetics while also undergoing mild to moderate orthodontic treatment.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Besides being a discreet treatment option compared to traditional braces, Invisalign also offers patients a variety of other benefits. Because the aligners are removable, patients are allowed to remove the aligners whenever they eat or drink. This also helps with maintaining good oral hygiene habits during treatment. Many patients who have traditional braces struggle with the dietary restrictions and additional oral maintenance that comes with them. Invisalign helps patients avoid these inconveniences.
How long will my Invisalign treatment last?
This all depends on the starting point of your smile. The first step is to take digital impressions that are used to design your custom clear aligners. The number of aligners necessary, and the corresponding length of your treatment, will be dependent on your desired result and the severity of your dental concerns. Most patients will see noticeable results within 12 months of treatment.
Can I remove my aligners for a special occasion?
Yes, you are allowed to remove your aligners for a special occasion. One of the best features of Invisalign is its removability, compared to traditional braces which involve the secure attachment of metal brackets and wires to your tooth surfaces throughout the duration of your treatment. If you are attending a wedding, going on a first date, or participating in a job interview, you can remove your aligners until the event is over. As long as you wear your aligners 22 hours out of the day, your treatment plan will not be affected.
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
We recommend scheduling an Invisalign consultation appointment at your earliest convenience. During this appointment, we will evaluate your bite pattern, jawbone, and the health of your soft tissues to determine if your dental structures are healthy enough to undergo treatment. Our team will determine if you are a candidate for this type of orthodontic treatment and then create a personalized plan to achieve your cosmetic goals.
What are my options beyond Invisalign?
Another option for discreet orthodontic treatment is clear braces. Dr. Mulkey offers a revolutionary orthodontic treatment called Six Month Smiles. This technique uses clear brackets to gradually improve the position of teeth for a straighter smile. During your cosmetic consultation, we will help you determine which method of orthodontic treatment will best help you achieve your dental health goals.