It’s Time for Straight Talk About Clear Aligners and How They Are a Great Alternative to Conventional Braces in Ontario, California
Older and younger patients alike are straightening their teeth comfortably and discreetly with Invisalign clear braces at Ontario Dental Center in Ontario, California, the office of Dr. Mukesh Patel. Dr. Patel loves offering this cutting-edge treatment to patients looking for a way to correct various alignment issues without using conventional metal braces, which can be bulky and uncomfortable when worn.
Straight Talk About Invisalign
At Ontario Dental Center, we offer Invisalign clear braces. However, this treatment is not technically a braces system, but it effectively corrects misalignment and bite issues. Instead of braces, Invisalign utilizes a series of clear plastic aligners in conjunction with various oral appliances. These aligners are comfortable and can be removed while gently and gradually guiding teeth into their proper positions. You just have to commit to wearing them 20 to 22 hours a day for expected results.
Patients who elect traditional braces must endure brackets and wires that are physically fixed to their teeth. You must have braces constantly adjusted regularly, meaning many more orthodontic appointments than what is required with Invisalign. With Invisalign, you do not have to concern yourself with wires that need to be constantly tightened or any other metal hardware. All of this metal can make daily tasks such as eating or brushing your teeth a real chore. With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners when it is time to eat or when you need to brush your teeth, but make sure to wear them as directed by Dr. Patel to make sure you see the gradual transformation of your smile that you desire.
What to expect?
If you are interested in Invisalign clear aligners, you will first need to set up a consultation with Dr. Patel to determine if you are a good candidate. While Invisalign is great for minor to moderate alignment issues, more serious issues may require traditional orthodontics, such as braces. If Dr. Patel concludes that Invisalign clear aligners are a good fit for your situation (as it has been for more than 8 million patients worldwide), the scans and data he has collected about your mouth will be fed into a state-of-the-art computer system that will generate a fully three-dimensional model of your mouth. This virtual model of your mouth can then be pulled up using a sophisticated software package developed by Align Technology, which can provide a timeline and visual representation of where your teeth will end up following treatment. It is an excellent way for Dr. Patel to show you the results before you decide to pay for this treatment. Think of it as a “try before you buy,” which allows you to see your future smile even before starting treatment.
This software is also used to guide the fabrication of each aligner. Invisalign aligners are crafted from smooth, transparent, BPA-free plastic. Each aligner within your set will be worn at a different stage of your treatment, so you must wear them correctly to get results. You will switch from aligner to aligner at around 2-week intervals. The number of aligners you will have in total will vary depending on your personal needs, meaning that those with more severe needs will have a greater number of trays than those with minor issues.
As mentioned previously, if you desire expected results, you must wear your aligner for about 22 hours daily. You can remove your aligner when it is time to eat, for you to perform your oral hygiene regimen, and if you need to rinse or clean the aligners. Other than that, you really should keep them on at all times. Failure to do so could negatively impact your treatment, create delays in how long it will take, and (in severe circumstances) even result in a regression of your treatment. Dr. Patel checks that treatment is progressing as it should and provides additional aligners as needed during visits, scheduled around every six weeks or so.
Invisalign FAQs
How long will my Invisalign treatment last?
How long your treatment will take depends on factors, including the complexity of your case. On average, it takes about 12 to 18 months to complete. However, some patients may see results in as little as six months, while more complex cases can take up to two years. Your dentist or orthodontist will provide a more accurate timeline after assessing your individual needs. It’s important to wear your aligners as directed to stay on track and achieve the best possible results within the estimated time frame.
Will I need to make frequent visits to the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
Invisalign treatment requires regular check-ins with your dentist, typically every 6 to 8 weeks. These visits are necessary to monitor your progress and make any needed adjustments. The frequency of visits may vary depending on your specific treatment plan. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign appointments are generally quicker and less invasive, as there are no wires or brackets to adjust. These check-ups ensure your treatment stays on track, allowing your dentist to address any concerns and ensure your teeth move as planned.
Do I need to wear Invisalign aligners while sleeping?
Yes, wearing your Invisalign aligners while sleeping is crucial for the success of your treatment. To ensure your teeth move according to the treatment plan, Invisalign aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours daily, including during sleep. Removing them too often or for extended periods can slow progress and lengthen the overall treatment time. Even while sleeping, consistent wear helps ensure your teeth gradually and effectively shift into their desired positions.
What happens if I don’t wear my aligners as directed?
If you don’t wear your Invisalign aligners as directed, your treatment progress may be delayed. Teeth may not move as planned, which could extend the overall treatment time. Inconsistent wear can also lead to discomfort when you put the aligners back in, as teeth might shift out of alignment. To achieve the best results, it’s essential to wear your aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours daily. Failing to do so may require additional adjustments or even restarting part of your treatment.
Can I play an instrument or play sports while using Invisalign?
Playing an instrument or engaging in sports is possible while wearing Invisalign aligners. Invisalign is designed to fit snugly over your teeth, allowing you to continue your activities without significant interference. For contact sports, it’s advisable to remove your aligners and wear a protective mouthguard to prevent damage to your teeth and the aligners. If you’re playing a wind instrument, you may need some time to adjust, but most patients can play comfortably with their aligners in place.
Is it possible to whiten my teeth while using Invisalign?
Yes, it is possible to whiten your teeth while undergoing Invisalign treatment. Some patients use their aligners as custom whitening trays, applying a whitening gel before wearing them. However, it’s essential to consult your dentist before starting any whitening treatment. They can recommend safe products that won’t harm your aligners or irritate your gums. Whitening your teeth while using Invisalign can help you achieve a brighter smile simultaneously with your orthodontic treatment, ensuring your teeth are straight and sparkling.
How long should I wear retainers after completing Invisalign treatment?
After completing the Invisalign treatment, you must wear retainers to maintain your new smile. Initially, retainers should be worn full-time for at least 3 to 6 months, then gradually reduced to nighttime wear as your dentist directs. This helps prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Retainer wear is a long-term commitment; many patients wear them at night indefinitely to preserve their results. Your dentist will provide specific instructions tailored to your needs, ensuring your smile stays aligned for years.
An Experience Worth Smiling About
Our patients appreciate that Invisalign is a comfortable yet effective method for straightening teeth that does not require wires and brackets to be affixed to their teeth.
Best of all, Invisalign is incredibly discreet and almost invisible to others! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel to learn more about Invisalign, please call (909) 414-3535 today.
