Dentists and orthodontists have different ways to fix crooked teeth, but many patients and dentists choose Invisalign® for a reason. We know that having crooked teeth can make you feel self-conscious, and we’re here to help. Clear aligner therapy can straighten your teeth without standing out.
In fact, most people won’t even notice you’re wearing clear aligners! Invisalign is a great choice for patients who don’t want the look of metal braces. Instead of wearing braces for years, Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners that slowly and gently straighten your teeth.
Because the aligners are clear, they’re hard to see. You can also take them out to eat, brush, and floss as usual.
Before starting treatment, you’ll have a consultation with our Invisalign dentist in Cary, NC, Dr. Hieu Nguyen. During this visit, you’ll talk about your smile goals with Dr. Nguyen so he can create a treatment plan for you. On average, Invisalign treatment takes about a year, giving you a straighter smile in a shorter time.
Celebrate your smile with clear aligner therapy from Kildaire Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Jack Nguyen explains the benefits of Invisalign below.
Straighten Your Smile with Invisalign®
Invisalign is a way to straighten your teeth without using metal braces. Instead of brackets and wires, clear plastic aligners gently move your teeth into place. The aligners are thin, lightweight plastic that feels comfortable to wear but is still strong enough for everyday use.
Invisalign is one of the easiest options for adult braces. The aligners are almost invisible, and you can take them out while eating, so there are no food restrictions. You can also remove them to brush and floss, making it much easier to keep your teeth clean compared to braces.
To stay on track with your treatment, you should wear your aligners as much as possible. Wear them for 22 hours a day and only take them out to eat, drink, or clean your teeth.
Before starting, our dentist will first check if Invisalign is right for you. Some dental issues may be too serious for aligners and could need surgery. Dr. Nguyen will also make sure he fixes all other dental problems first to help your results last longer.
The Invisalign Process in Cary, NC
Appointments at Kildaire Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are simple and quick. Before starting Invisalign, you’ll meet with Dr. Nguyen to make sure it’s the right option for you. If it is, he’ll take impressions of your teeth to create custom aligners just for you.
Dr. Nguyen will also tell you how long your treatment will take. When your first set of aligners is ready, we’ll make sure they fit properly. You’ll feel some pressure each time you switch to a new set, as your teeth are gently moving. You’ll change aligners about every two weeks to keep shifting your teeth.
You don’t need to come in every two weeks, but you will have occasional check-ups to make sure everything is going well.
Benefits of Invisalign®
Discreet Look
One of the biggest reasons patients choose Invisalign is that the clear aligners are much harder to notice than braces. This is great for both teens and adults who want a straighter smile without drawing attention. Since the aligners fit so well and are clear, most people won’t even realize you’re wearing them.
Shorter Treatment Time
Invisalign usually works faster than braces. Treatment time is typically between 6 and 18 months, while braces often take several years.
You’ll also need fewer office visits. With braces, you visit monthly to get wires tightened. But with Invisalign, you change the aligners on your own and just need a few check-ups to make sure things are going well.
Easy to Remove for Oral Care
While you should wear the aligners for about 22 hours a day, you can still remove them. Braces can make cleaning your teeth difficult because food and plaque can get stuck in them. But with Invisalign, you can remove the aligners to brush and floss as usual, keeping your mouth clean and healthy.
No Food Restrictions
With braces, you have to avoid certain foods that might get stuck or damage the wires. But with Invisalign, you can take the aligners out to eat, so you don’t have to change your diet.
More Comfortable
Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic, which makes them more comfortable than braces. Braces can sometimes irritate the soft tissue in your mouth, but clear aligners are gentle on your cheeks and gums.
Additionally, advantages of Invisalign clear aligners include:
- Fewer office visits for check-ins
- Faster treatment time compared to traditional braces
If you’re ready to straighten your smile without the hassle of metal braces, Invisalign may be the perfect option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Invisalign Make Your Mouth Dry?
It can cause some dryness at first. Your mouth may react to the aligners by making less saliva, which can cause dry mouth. This might cause some discomfort, but it usually gets better once your mouth adjusts to the aligners. Drinking plenty of water helps ease the dryness.
How Long Does Invisalign Take for Teens?
Invisalign treatment for teens typically takes between 6 to 18 months. However, the exact time depends on how much their teeth need to move and how well they follow the treatment plan. Wearing the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day is key to staying on track.
Missing too much wear time can slow down progress. Additionally, the complexity of the case can also affect the timeline. Regular check-ups with the dentist ensure everything is moving as planned. By sticking to the guidelines, teens can achieve a straighter smile within the estimated timeframe.
Can I Switch From Braces to Invisalign?
Yes, you can switch from braces to Invisalign. Your dentist will look at your current situation to see if it’s a good option for you. Invisalign is great for patients who want to straighten their teeth without wearing braces anymore.
Can I Sleep with my Invisalign Aligners In?
Yes, you can wear Invisalign while you sleep. In fact, it’s best to wear them at night to stay on track with your treatment. You don’t have to take them out before bedtime.
Is Invisalign a Permanent Fix?
Invisalign is not a permanent fix, but it can provide long-lasting results. If you take good care of your teeth and visit your dentist regularly, your results should last for many years. Wear your retainer for twice as long as your treatment, and your results may last forever.
What’s the Difference Between Invisalign and Retainers?
Invisalign aligners shift your teeth into the right position, while retainers keep your teeth in place after treatment. You wear retainers after finishing Invisalign or braces to prevent your teeth from moving back. Dentists recommend using retainers for more than twice as long as you had clear aligners or braces.
Schedule a Consultation Today
To straighten your teeth with clear aligners, call Kildaire Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. We’ll create a treatment plan that’s right for you. We offer cosmetic dental treatments in Cary, NC.
You can schedule an appointment online or by calling 919-823-7107. Feel free to ask Dr. Nguyen any questions about Invisalign at your next exam. He’ll guide you through the process step by step.