Very often as children braces are worn and teeth are straightened. However, as we age changes can occur that alter the dental occlusion requiring additional treatment to restore the straight teeth once enjoyed. At this stage, whether you are a young adult or many years separate you from when you once wore braces, Invisalign clear aligners are an option for you to consider.
Invisalign is a teeth straightening method with several advantages often important to older patients.
The aligners are clear – this makes teeth straightening virtually undetectable.
The aligners are convenient – treatment is updated by replacing the aligners every two weeks to the next in a series that has been developed to keep teeth moving to their correct occlusion.
The aligners are comfortable – although strong enough to gently shift teeth, the aligners contain no sharp wires or edges to abrade soft oral tissues.
The aligners are removable – you can continue to eat all the foods you love as the aligners are simply removed during meals and snacks and replaced when done.
Aligners are also taken out for daily brushing and flossing; six month dental appointments with your regular dentist allow for a thorough cleaning and exam keeping teeth and gums healthy throughout orthodontic care.
You will still visit your orthodontist regularly to make sure teeth straightening is on schedule. You will be advised that wearing your aligners every day for a minimum of twenty to twenty-two hours is required to keep teeth straightening moving accordingly.
There are similarities between traditional methods of teeth straightening and Invisalign. The diagnostic tools such as photographs, x-rays, and dental impressions are used. With Invisalign, these items are sent to their lab where 3-D digital technology is incorporated to develop a series of aligners that will be used to shift teeth to their new occlusion.
With standard braces, your orthodontist is able to start placing braces right away. While the methods may be different, the results are identical.
Having straight teeth is important to good dental health so if you wore braces in the past and teeth require straightening once again, there is no reason not to pursue Invisalign clear aligners and a smile makeover.
To learn more about your orthodontic treatment options, contact our office at 210-970-7638 and schedule a professional consultation today.