Your Diamond Invisalign® Provider
Have you ever thought about the science behind clear orthodontic aligners like Invisalign? Here, Dr. Vick in Calgary breaks down the science of clear aligners and how they work in your mouth.
How do Invisalign clear aligners work?
Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, removable and transparent trays that help resolve your orthodontic issues. The do this my guiding your teeth in very small steps and very slowly into their correct positions. This is all specified in a custom treatment plan developed for you by your orthodontist like Dr. Vick.
Over the last decade or so, clear aligners have become a popular treatment for teen and adults who want to keep their orthodontic treatment discreet. Clear aligners don't have all the wires and brackets which are the extra-visible hallmarks of traditional metal braces.
You must be a suitable candidate for clear aligners
The first step of the clear aligner process is to find out if you are eligible for clear aligners in the first place! At a consultation appointment, Dr. Vick will complete an exam which can include taking photos of your teeth, digital x-rays, dental impressions and a bite registration (a process which allows Dr. Vick to determine how your upper and lower teeth fit together).
This process is key to finding out whether your issue can successfully be treated with clear aligners.
Clear aligners effectively treat orthodontic issues
After Dr. Vick examines your smile and takes impressions of your teeth, he will create your aligners to treat your specific orthodontic issues. He has used Invisalign to successfully treat patients with for orthodontic issues like:
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Overbite
- Crooked teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Sleep apnea
- Crossbite
- Gapped teeth
Each patient's teeth are unique to them, and each individual treatment case with clear aligners will be unique as well. You treatment time, and other factors can vary depending on how far your teeth will need to move in your mouth and which teeth most be moved. It can take longer to mover certain teeth than others because of their position in your mouth.
Depending on your needs and preferences, removeable custom clear aligners are able to offer you a comfortable and aesthetic orthodontic alternative to braces.
Clear aligners encourage excellent oral hygiene and oral health
All the brushing and flossing you will need to do in order to keep your teeth and clear aligners clean during your treatment means that your oral health will be in excellent shape by the time you are done your treatment.
A big aspect of a successful clear aligner treatment is your commitment to oral hygiene: avoiding cavities tooth decay and gum disease, while working Dr. Vick to follow your treatment plan and minimizing the opportunity for plaque to take hold in your teeth.
Patients spend less time in treatment with clear aligners
Another key benefit to clear aligners is that you will be spending less time in Dr. Vick's office than with traditional braces, and more time enjoying your new smile.
Clear aligners don't require regular adjustments or tightening very often, and you should only need to visit Dr. Vick every few months to check in on your progress.
Limitations to Treatment with Clear Aligners
While there are many advantages to treatment with clear aligners, not every orthodontic issues can be treated with them. Large overbites, some molar issues, severe rotations and other problems may only be treated with another orthodontic technique.
If you can't be treated using Invisalign, Dr. Vick can help you to find another option which will work for you like traditional metal braces.