Invisalign®

Invisalign at Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas

Welcome to Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas, where we pride ourselves on transforming smiles with cutting-edge technologies like Invisalign. Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic system that uses custom-made, clear aligners to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. If you’re considering Invisalign to enhance your smile, this page will guide you through who is a good candidate, the treatment process, and how to care for your aligners and maintain your results post-treatment.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is ideal for teenagers and adults looking for a less noticeable, more aesthetic alternative to traditional metal braces. It is especially effective for correcting mild to moderate dental misalignments, such as:

• Crowded Teeth: Crowded teeth occur when there is insufficient space in the mouth for all the teeth to fit normally, causing them to bunch up, overlap, or twist, sometimes pushing one tooth in front of another.
• Gaps Between Teeth: This condition, also known as diastema, involves noticeable spaces or gaps between the teeth, which can occur anywhere in the mouth but are most common between the two upper front teeth.
• Overbites: An overbite is characterized by the upper teeth protruding significantly over the lower teeth, often leading to a “buck teeth” appearance and can cause chewing or biting problems.
• Underbites: An underbite is marked by the lower teeth extending out past the upper front teeth, creating a bulldog-like appearance in the mouth, which can lead to difficulties in chewing and speaking.
• Crossbites: A crossbite occurs when some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed, which can lead to misaligned jaw growth and uneven wear on the teeth.

Good candidates should have all of their adult teeth and possess good oral health. Patients with bridgework, certain bite issues, or the need for more complex orthodontic procedures may need to explore alternative options. A commitment to wearing the aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day is crucial for success.

The Invisalign Treatment Process

1. Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a consultation at Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas, where we discuss your orthodontic goals and examine your teeth to determine if Invisalign is right for you. We utilize advanced imaging technology to create a precise 3D model of your teeth.
2. Custom Treatment Plan: Using the 3D model, we develop a custom treatment plan that maps out the exact movements of your teeth. You’ll be able to see a virtual representation of how your teeth will move during treatment and preview the final outcome.
3. Receiving Your Aligners: Once your aligners are ready, you’ll receive them with specific instructions on how to wear them. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next in the series, gradually shifting your teeth into the desired position.
4. Progress Checks: You’ll have periodic check-ups with your dentist to monitor your progress and receive new aligners. These visits are crucial to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
5. Completion of Treatment: After you’ve gone through all your aligners, your treatment might be complete. However, some cases may require refinements to achieve the best results.

Oral Hygiene During Invisalign Treatment

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is vital during Invisalign treatment. Here are tips to keep your teeth and aligners clean:

• Regular Cleaning: Remove your aligners to brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean Your Aligners: Rinse your aligners every night and brush them gently with your toothbrush to keep them fresh and free from harmful bacteria.
• Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks: Do not eat or drink anything except water while wearing your aligners to avoid staining them or trapping sugar between your teeth and the aligner.
• Store Properly: When not wearing your aligners, store them in the case provided to avoid loss or damage.

Maintaining Your New Smile After Invisalign

Once your treatment is complete, maintaining the results is key to enjoying your beautiful new smile for years to come.

• Wear a Retainer: You will likely need to wear a retainer to help maintain the new position of your teeth. Initially, you might need to wear it all the time for a few months, then only at night.
• Continue Good Oral Hygiene: Keep up with your brushing and flossing routine, and continue to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Continue visiting Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas for regular dental checkups. We will help ensure that your teeth remain straight and your smile stays beautiful.

Ready to Achieve Your Dream Smile with Invisalign?

Invisalign is a powerful tool for achieving a straighter, more attractive smile without the drawbacks of traditional braces. If you’re looking for an effective, discreet orthodontic treatment, consider Invisalign. Contact Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas in Irving today to schedule your consultation and find out if Invisalign is the right choice for you. Let us help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of with the comfort and convenience of Invisalign.