Invisalign® has transformed more than 18 million smiles worldwide since its introduction in the late 1990s. The power of this orthodontic treatment resides in its ability to straighten teeth and correct “bad bites” based on the same proven principles as conventional braces and its unique features. Those features support a comfortable, hassle-free, and discreet treatment process. Drs. Amanda Smith, Nicole Byer and Amanda Hallinan, along with our entire team at Nashua Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, encourage you to read on to learn more about why Invisalign® at our Nashua, New Hampshire office may be right for you.
How does Invisalign® work exactly?
Invisalign® straightens teeth and corrects bite issues using oral appliances called “aligners” instead of fixed metal wires, brackets, and elastics. Like braces, these aligners place gentle yet consistent force on the teeth. When worn as directed by Drs. Smith, Byer or Hallinan, these aligners gradually move the teeth through the bone. Dental professionals consider treatment complete once they properly realign their teeth.
Unlike braces, these aligners are not “fixed” or wired to the teeth. You can easily remove them for effortless eating and effective brushing and flossing, which helps keep your teeth, gums, and body healthy throughout treatment. Aligners are also made from transparent, advanced plastic. The aligners are designed to conform to your one-of-a-kind mouth, and the plastic is smooth and flexible. No jagged or hard edges make treatment a pain, nor are there obvious dark-colored metals peeking through. Our patients love that Invisalign® aligners are not visible when they smile and are easy to adjust, so you’ll forget you are even wearing them!
Do I have to wear the aligners overnight?
Yes. You should always wear the aligners, but you can take them out before eating, brushing, and flossing. Clean the aligners regularly to prevent stains and the build-up of harmful bacteria, making your teeth prone to decay and your gums vulnerable to periodontal disease. We can advise on good cleaning techniques and the best products to keep these aligner trays in shape. Failure to comply with instructions provided by your dentist can result in treatment taking longer than it should, and we know you wanted to see your evenly-spaced teeth yesterday!
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How long does treatment take?
If treatment stays on track, patients can enjoy their new, healthy smile in around six months. The average treatment duration is between twelve and eighteen months. Various factors, including the specific orthodontic issue being addressed and its severity, can either reduce or extend treatment time.
How do you make my set of aligners?
Throughout your treatment, you will wear several sets of aligners. The aligners are specifically designed using software that creates 3-dimensional images or models of your mouth. Each set of aligner trays corresponds to a specific phase of your treatment. You should wear them in the correct order for about one to two weeks each. During your periodic “check-ins” at the Nashua Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry office, your dentist will evaluate your progress, make necessary adjustments, and provide new aligners.
Will I need to wear a retainer?
Invisalign‘s proprietary Vivera™ retainers are a part of the treatment process. They help to prevent relapse, which happens when the teeth shift back into their pre-treatment positions. Generally, you may start by wearing the retainers full time and then reduce wear time to nightly. But every patient is different. We welcome your specific questions and concerns. Schedule a consultation at our office in Nashua, NH today by calling (855) 363-3793. During your visit, we can even pull up the model of your teeth and use animation/simulation technology to show you how your smile will look after treatment.
