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 people 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, Dr. Jack Zhang, in Cary, NC. During this visit, you’ll talk about your smile goals, and Dr. Zhang will 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 Zhang 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 made of thin, light plastic that’s comfortable to wear but strong enough for daily 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—ideally for 22 hours a day. Only take them out to eat, drink, or clean your teeth.
Before starting, our dentist will check if Invisalign is right for you. Some dental issues may be too serious for aligners and could need surgery. Dr. Zhang will also make sure any other dental problems are fixed first to help your results last longer.
The Invisalign Process
Appointments at Kildaire Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are simple and quick. Before starting Invisalign, you’ll meet with Dr. Zhang 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. Zhang 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 main reasons people love Invisalign is because the clear aligners are much less noticeable than traditional 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, they are removable. Braces can make it hard to clean your teeth because food and plaque can get trapped. 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 lead to dry mouth. This might cause some discomfort, but it usually gets better once your mouth adjusts to the aligners. Drinking plenty of water can help ease the dryness.
How long does Invisalign take for teens?
For teens, Invisalign treatment can take 6 to 18 months, depending on how much their teeth need to move. You’ll get a new set of aligners every two or three weeks.
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 people 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 for 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.
What’s the difference between Invisalign and retainers?
Invisalign aligners move your teeth into place, while retainers hold your teeth in position after treatment. Retainers are worn after you finish Invisalign or braces to keep your teeth from shifting back.
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 treatents in Cary, NC.
You can schedule an appointment online or by calling 919-823-7107. Feel free to ask Dr. Zhang any questions about Invisalign at your next exam. He’ll guide you through the process step by step.