Invisalign – Tyler, TX
A Less Noticeable Way to Straighten Teeth
Plenty of adults wants to improve their smiles but are reluctant to get metal braces. It’s pretty easy to see why; not only do they draw unwanted attention, but they also prevent you from enjoying certain foods. Luckily, there’s a more image-friendly, convenient option in the form of Invisalign in our Tyler, TX dental office. Dr. Stansbury can use this treatment to straighten or otherwise correct your teeth without disrupting your everyday life or your professional image! Contact our dental office today to get started on obtaining the more dazzling grin you deserve!
What is Invisalign?
Instead of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign will use a series of plastic trays to adjust your teeth gradually over time. Each aligner represents a different stage of the process and needs to be worn for a certain amount of time each day (about 22 hours).
It goes without saying that because the trays are transparent, they’re far less noticeable than other orthodontic treatments. They can also be taken out of your mouth whenever it’s time to eat or if you don’t want them to get damaged while playing sports.
Benefits of Invisalign
- Boosted Confidence: Many adults and teens tend to feel self-conscious about wearing metal braces, but with Invisalign, most people won’t even realize you’re wearing the aligners unless they know what they’re looking for.
- More Comfortable: You’ll usually experience some minor discomfort during an initial adjustment period, but once that’s done, Invisalign will fit comfortably in your mouth. You won’t have to worry about sharp or protruding wires poking you in the gums.
- Works Faster: On average, Invisalign treatments last about 12 months; in comparison, in some cases traditional metal braces may have to be worn for two or three years.
Who Can Invisalign Help?
There are many different orthodontic issues that Invisalign can treat. Of course, they’re often used for crooked teeth, but they can also fix cases of overbite, underbite and crossbite so that the teeth and jaws line up correctly. Small gaps and crowded teeth can also be treated depending on the complexity of the problem and the amount of adjustment that’s needed.
Unlike with braces, Invisalign wearers need to have the discipline to keep their aligners in their mouths for as long as possible; that means not taking them out too often and not forgetting to put them back in when you’re done with your meals. For this reason, Invisalign usually isn’t recommended for children.
Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth can worsen with age, affecting overall and oral health by increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, jaw discomfort, and difficulty chewing. The overlapping of teeth creates hard-to-reach spaces, promoting the accumulation of bacteria and plaque. Fortunately, Invisalign offers a solution by shifting teeth to align seamlessly, enhancing the effectiveness of brushing and flossing. Beyond the health benefits, achieving a straighter smile with Invisalign can also boost confidence.
Gaps Between Teeth
Gaps between teeth can result from various factors, including natural bone development, oral anatomy, and childhood habits like thumb-sucking. These spaces pose risks such as bacteria buildup, decay, and gum disease. Addressing these gaps is crucial for oral health, reducing the potential for inflammation and other issues. Invisalign can seamlessly close these gaps, while dental bonding may be more suitable for minor gaps.
Overbite
An overbite, or overjet, occurs when the top teeth protrude excessively over the lower arch, causing potential jaw pain, speech difficulties, and uneven dental wear. It may also expose the top teeth, increasing the risk of injury due to inadequate protection. Addressing overbites is crucial for oral comfort, functionality, and long-term dental health.
Underbite
An underbite, where the lower teeth extend beyond or align with the upper teeth when the mouth is closed, often stems from genetics, jaw injuries, or childhood habits. If left untreated, it can lead to sleep apnea, mouth breathing, and speech and chewing difficulties. While underbites are most effectively treated in younger patients, adults can also benefit. Invisalign treatment can gradually correct the bite, ensuring optimal oral health and functionality.
Crossbite
Crossbite occurs when the lower teeth are positioned slightly in front of the upper arch, often due to genetics, oral habits, or premature loss of baby teeth. Invisalign aligners can effectively correct this issue, but if jaw development is involved, additional accessories may be needed. Left untreated, crossbite can lead to various long-term problems, including an increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay, jaw pain, headaches, and diminished self-confidence due to facial asymmetry. Addressing crossbite early ensures optimal oral health and overall well-being.
Open Bite
Open bite occurs when the front top and bottom teeth cannot overlap or touch when the mouth is closed. Often caused by inadequate bone development or childhood habits like thumb-sucking, it can lead to pronunciation challenges and increased enamel wear on the back teeth. Invisalign aligners offer an effective solution by bringing the front teeth together, correcting the bite pattern, and lowering the risk of dental damage and wear.
Invisalign FAQs
Metal wires and brackets are no longer the only way you can achieve a straighter smile. Thanks to Invisalign in Tyler, you can discreetly and comfortably address your orthodontic issues in record time. Since the process is so unique, it’s completely normal to have questions about it before starting your journey. At Stansbury Dental, we aim to be as helpful as possible while you straighten your pearly whites. Below, we’ve decided to answer some of the most common questions we receive from patients about Invisalign. If you’d prefer to speak directly with a member of our team, don’t hesitate to reach out!
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
On average, it takes about 12 to 18 months to complete your Invisalign treatment. However, since every smile is unique, the exact amount of time it’ll take to finish Invisalign can vary significantly from person to person. Several factors contribute to the time it takes to complete treatment, including the severity of your misalignment and your commitment to the orthodontic plan. For patients with mild issues, they can finish in as little as six months! Those with more severe problems can take up to 18 months. Although that sounds like a long time, it’s still four months shorter than the average treatment with traditional braces.
Does Invisalign Hurt?
Invisalign clear aligners are made of a smooth plastic design, making them one of the most comfortable orthodontic treatment options. Even though it’s not considered painful, the initial adjustment period can be uncomfortable. You may experience mild soreness and discomfort, but it should improve as you get used to the plastic trays. Since Invisalign uses gentle pressure to move your teeth into proper alignment, you may experience discomfort every time you advance to a new set of trays. Luckily, you can easily manage it by taking pain medication as needed and using cold compresses.
Can You Eat with Invisalign?
Unlike traditional metal braces, there are no dietary restrictions while undergoing Invisalign treatment. The clear aligners are completely removable, meaning all you have to do is take them out when it’s time to eat. It’s incredibly important that you remove them before eating or drinking anything that’s not water. Otherwise, you risk damaging your aligners, causing cracks and stains.
What Are Invisalign Attachments?
Initially, Invisalign was only available for patients with mild cases of dental misalignment. But now, attachments and buttons make it possible for patients with severe malocclusions or bite issues to enjoy the treatment. The attachments are small bumps that are strategically placed on the teeth to guide them into place. Meanwhile, buttons are designed to attach or anchor rubber bands, allowing patients with bite issues to benefit from Invisalign treatment. It’s worth noting that even with these additional accessories, patients can still enjoy the benefits of removable orthodontics.