Invisalign, Invisalign Teen and Current Treatment Modalities
Orthodontic appliances (braces) can be made of metal, ceramic or acrylic. Some are designed to primarily move teeth (orthodontic), while others are used “orthopedically” to modify facial growth. Some appliances have both orthodontic and orthopedic treatment effects.
By placing a constant,
gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. This is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band was placed around each tooth. You can choose silver, gold or clear brackets, and even opt for multi-colored ligatures. Wires are also less noticeable and by using the latest technology, teeth move faster with less discomfort to patients.
Appliances come in two types: they may be removable or fixed appliances bonded to the teeth. The orthodontist selects the appliances based on an individual patient’s treatment needs and how much cooperation or compliance (following the orthodontist’s instructions) can be expected from the patient. Removable appliances are easier to keep clean, but can be lost or misplaced. Fixed appliances are worn all the time and are often indicated for problems that require a more aggressive or time-sensitive treatment. Patients who have trouble wearing removable appliances can often be treated with fixed appliances.
Treatment time for full treatment typically ranges from 15 to 24 months, depending on the growth factors and the severity of the problem. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months. Patients grow at different rates and treatment time varies. Diligent use of prescribed rubber bands and/or headgear is an important factor in achieving desired results and finishing on time.
What is Invisalign?
Introducing truly invisible braces. The Invisalign system straightens your teeth, not with braces and wires, but with a series of clear, customized removable aligners that are virtually undetectable ~ like contact lenses for your teeth.
Although Invisalign is not for everyone, current advances have made it a viable treatment option for a broad range of teens and adults seeking correction of crowded or spaced teeth, as well as for those whose teeth may have shifted after having worn braces in their youth.
Dr. Cardarelli is a Preferred Provider, trained and certified to treat patients with Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. Using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology, your prescription is translated into a series of clear, precisely customized aligners, which are worn sequentially in 2-week intervals for an average of 12 months. Teeth are moved daily, millimeter by millimeter, until desired results are achieved. Only an Invisalign certified doctor can ascertain if this latest technological advancement is right for you. Your consultation with Dr. Cardarelli will determine if you are a potential candidate for this new and exciting phase of aesthetic orthodontics.
Consider Invisalign to get the beautiful straight teeth you’ve always wanted – without braces. A complimentary consultation can determine if Invisalign is right for you. To learn more about Invisalign visit www.invisalign.com.
Why would I want it?
Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. No metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor’s office getting adjustments. Dr. Cardarelli allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan on the computer when you start, so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
How does it work?
Each set of Invisalign aligners are worn for approximately 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move – little-by-little, week-by-week – until they have straightened to the final position. You’ll visit our office about once every 4-6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30, but both will vary from case to case.
Learn more about Invisalign on their web site at www.invisalign.com.