Invisalign Specialist

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses strong, clear plastic aligners. Like braces, these aligners put pressure on your teeth and arches to gradually adjust them until they reach an optimal position for an attractive smile and efficient bite. 

During your Invisalign consultation, Dr. Gaitan takes digital X-rays and uses an intraoral scanner to gather detailed images of your teeth and jaw. Using these images, he can plan your treatment, predict the movement of your teeth and any potential setbacks, and design the aligners.

You’ll use a series of aligners in their correct order, each of them moving your teeth a little more. You’ll feel a bit of pressure when you first wear each new set, but soon they feel comfortable as your teeth shift to accommodate them. 

What is it like to live with Invisalign?

You must wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day in total. Depending on your course of treatment, you might need to change aligners every week or once every two weeks. Dr. Gaitan tells you how long it’ll take to finish your treatment, which is usually between 12-18 months.

While you use Invisalign, you’ll need to make a few small changes to your normal routine. These include:

• Visiting Dr. Gaitan every 4-6 weeks
• Removing your aligners when you eat or drink anything but water
• Avoiding smoking and chewing gum while wearing aligners
• Brushing your teeth after every meal
• Cleaning your aligners with a cleaning system or toothbrush and toothpaste

To avoid damaging your aligners, you should clean them with lukewarm (never hot) water only and be sure to remove them any time you eat.

How does Invisalign compare to braces?

While reviewing your orthodontic options, you might consider both Invisalign and braces for your treatment. Each case is different, and both treatments can deliver stunning results. It’s up to you and Dr. Gaitan to determine which option is better for your case. 

While comparing the two, you should consider these advantages of Invisalign:

• No dietary restrictions
• Far less noticeable devices
• Removability
• Fewer visits to the office
• Easier cleaning
• More comfortable

In some cases, braces are the better option simply because they can address more complex issues. However, Invisalign is still a great choice for mild to moderate cases, and you might be able to switch to Invisalign after wearing braces for a while. 

For more information about the discreet and convenient Invisalign system, call Ricardo M. Gaitan, DDS, or request an appointment online today.